the initiative to identify the project

The solar lighting systems were recently installed in the Peruvian communities of Nuevo Amanecer, Marcas, Quilca, Yanapampa, Huancho, Buenavista, Tantas, Uchapa, Chacará, Huayao and Castrovirreyna. The solar lighting systems are lighting streets, pathways, and community "plaza" squares.

"We felt compelled to do what we could for the victims of this earthquake and we thought that our solar lighting would help address some of the challenges facing these communities so affected by this tragedy." said Michael W. Sonnenfeldt, chairman of Sol Inc. "Public lighting is often critically important to the economic and social activities of a community and our solar lights will enhance the safety and security of these communities. Public lighting extends the daily life of a small town whether it is for children playing or allowing a market to remain open a few hours longer. We learned from our previous relief efforts donating solar lighting units to New Orleans and other Gulf Coast cities affected by Hurricane Katrina that working with local government agencies and world class relief agencies involved in the recovery efforts is critically important to ensure the successful installation of the donated solar lights. Practical Action really made this happen."

Sol took the initiative to identify the project, the local needs, and arranged for a donor who could rely on Sol to manage the entire process from beginning to end. Sol donated all of the logistical efforts to augment the contributions to make the project happen.

Philanthropist David Russell, who underwrote the project added; "I wanted to help the victims of the earthquake, but I wanted to fund a specific effort where I could be sure where my contribution was going, and for what. Sol provided a complete solution that literally allowed me to write a single check, and they took care of the rest, professionally and in very difficult and complicated circumstances. This opens up a whole range of possibilities for foundations and philanthropists who often have the intent but not the infrastructure to help victims of one type of disaster or another."

"In the evening, families would normally retreat into their households. Thanks to the efforts of Practical Action and Sol Inc., people now gather under the solar lights for social activities and watch their children play in a secure environment," said Federico Salas, Governor of Huancavelica Region in Peru, the region most affected by the earthquake.