A local restaurant has stepped up to help raise money for a project aimed at providing clean water to a school in Africa.
Mario's Kitchen in Tsawwassen has teamed up with Steve Kovacs and the Clean Team to help raise money for its latest project.
The team, which includes seven other people, will travel to Uganda in February to install a clean water system at the Good Samaritan Community Nursery and Primary School in the village of Kumuli.
"They have nothing there," said Kovacs. "It's a very poor part of Uganda."
The school is home to more than 300 kids.
All members of the team are covering their own travel costs, however, $20,000 is needed to purchase the needed materials.
The system will gather and purify water, making it a safe and reliable source of drinking water.
Kovacs said the group will hire local residents in the village to help with the construction of the system, and villagers will be trained on the proper maintenance and upkeep of the system.
Starting this month, Mario's Kitchen will make it a little easier for local residents to donate to the cause as patrons will have the opportunity to add a donation to their bill when dining at the restaurant.
Owner Darren Gates said his staff have been educated about the project and will be able to pass on information to patrons. Gates added he and his staff are excited to help with the project.
"It affects all ages and all demographics," he said. "Water... it's pretty hard to find something that is more vital."
