SPITI PROJECTS CHARITY

The Spiti Project's mission is to improve the quality of life for Tibetan communities living in the Spiti Valley by working with the local people to promote health care, education and their unique cultural heritage.

Since 1993 we have built a hospital and a school, established mobile health clinics offering dental and eye care as well as general checkups for the more remote villages of the area. Attached to the hospital is a teacher-training programme for health-care workers. In addition we have created a craft centre for women to provide them with a commercial outlet for the traditional Spiti weaves, and the opportunity to earn their own income. Also, several students have profited from our sponsorship programme, and more seek our support every year. Recently, the village elders have sought our help to restore an ancient Tibetan Monastery dating back to the 10th Century AD.

Recently a mud brick project was set up to encourage the local people to return to the traditional method of building houses which is more suitable in a seismic zone, and offers better thermal qualities than concrete in this high altitude area.  This year we were approached by the Public Welfare Society Kaza with a view of helping them with many environmental issues.  We look forward to working in association with them. We have also set up Knit-for-Spiti.  If you would like to knit a sweater for Spiti children, go to this link for the knitting pattern.  Finally, we have created a Child Sponsorship Scheme for deprived children in the valley, who would not otherwise have the opportunity of an education.

  IMMEDIATE NEEDS:

The Spiti Project Charity raises money for both its general operating expenses and for specific projects in the Valley.

Your donation can help purchase build a 'Solar Eco' Community Centre in Kaza, to be constructed in local traditional style, incorporating solar energy for heating, lighting and hot water using modern design and technology to harness the freely available solar energy. The building will consist of:

• A clinic for treating dental and ophthalmic patients.

• A craft centre to conserve and promote the traditional style of weaving and spinning in the Spiti Valley.

• An information centre for the public to learn about local herbs, plants, nature conservation and wildlife, and the history and geology of the Spiti Valley.

• And finally a cafe/ restaurant for local people and tourists.