In marginalized areas and communities affected by extreme poverty, lack of hygiene and sanitation are the main obstacles to achieving community development. Addressing these basic needs becomes a priority before any other actions are taken. It is common for the population to lack knowledge, attitudes and behaviors around personal hygiene and community sanitation. The social norms in this regard have not been integrated and the context oftentimes does not favor the development of such behaviors.

We strengthen knowledge, attitudes and behaviors towards health care, starting with issues of personal hygiene and environmental sanitation. These subjects, along with life skills, promote development and empowerment to break the circle of poverty. Changes are achieved at the individual and family level as well as in social norms to build and maintain healthy environments. We have worked in the most vulnerable communities in the highlands of Chiapas and in the mountains of Guerrero and Hidalgo in Mexico.