Kids carry water to learn about sustainable living

Students from Nellie N. Coffman Middle School and Sunny Sands Elementary School are learning about water restrictions in developing countries Saturday morning.

Part of Global Youth Service Day, kids will join adults in walking six miles carrying six liters of water in a backpack.

The event, sponsored by StateFarm, is intended to demonstrate the dramatic reality that residents of many developing countries face every day seeking clean water for basic uses. In the context of California’s drought, now in its fourth year, organizers say the topic is relevant even in our urban areas.

“Clean and ample water is something that most of us take for granted. By participating in the Walking for Water campaign, we hope people will learn about local and global water issues and take action to improve the lives of other kids,” said Karen Riley, Founder and Director of the Student Creative Recycled Art Project, or S.C.R.A.P. Gallery.

Following the walk, students participate in on-site demonstrations including farming with drought tolerant “key hole gardens”, as well as cooking in a solar oven, among other sustainable practices.

Earth Day is April 22.

Nellie N. Coffman Middle School is located at 34603 Plumley Road in Cathedral City.