Project progress report

By: Linus, 5/4/25 7:12 PM

Project Status

We are pleased to present a detailed, step-by-step overview of the development and construction of the roofed laundry facility. This report highlights the key phases of the project, from initial planning to full implementation, showcasing the transformation and impact made possible through your generous support.

Original conditions

The laundry had to be washed manually in an improvised washbasin and the clothes were then hung up around the house to dry.

Preparation of the Space

It was decided to locate the laundry room in two adjacent areas:

The indoor laundry room, where today the washing machines are placed, was installed in a patio that had walls but no roof. It was previously used to store items families brought when they arrived at the children home and some bicycles. Over several days, the materials stored there were sorted, and unused items were removed to begin the work of installing water and electrical systems.
The outdoor laundry area, where two washbasins, the rainwater tank, and outdoor clotheslines were placed, used to be a vegetable garden and was now an open patio. It was necessary to install pavers (brick flooring), water and electrical systems, and a roof to protect the laundry facilities.

Replacement of the Asbestos Tank with a Plastic Tank

Since the foundation is housed in an old building, the previous water reserve tank was made of asbestos (a harmful material) and had very little capacity (200 liters). It was replaced with a new, larger-capacity tank (500 liters) made of plastic, which is safe for health.

Installation of Beams to Create the Structure and Install the Roof Sheets

The patio had walls but no roof. A system of beams was installed to create the structure in both the indoor and outdoor laundry areas, and then the roof sheets were added. These sheets were donated by a Colombian producer who joined the cause after learning about our project.

Installation of the Gutter and 2,000-Liter Plastic Tank to Collect Rainwater

The foundation obtained a 2,000-liter tank to collect rainwater and optimize water use in the laundry room. During the construction, wide gutters were built to collect water from all the house's roofs and channel it into this tank. With the help of a pump, this water supplies the washbasins, resulting in significant water savings.

Installation of Plumbing, Electricity, and Finishing Work

The areas designated for the laundry had no water service, wastewater systems, or electricity. During construction, all the necessary piping and wiring were installed to enable the laundry room to operate with three washing machines and to allow for nighttime use, thanks to proper lighting.

Installation of the Washing Machines and Clotheslines

The home previously had two domestic washing machines. A third was donated during construction by a private individual thanks to your efforts. All three machines were installed and now operate simultaneously to support the laundry service. Ten clotheslines made of wire and plastic, along with eight pipes for additional drying space, were installed. Outside, a mini drying rack made of pipes was set up, and ten more clotheslines were added.

Soil Preparation for Washbasin Installation

The external laundry area, where two washbasins, the rainwater tank, and outdoor sclotheslines were located, was originally an open patio. The soil had to be cleared, debris and sand laid down, and pavers installed. Water and electricity were also installed here, and a roof was added to protect the equipment.