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A-Gift-of-Light-Altitude-Project

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A Gift of Light – $30

In October of 2017 when we trekked to the Upper Dolpo to visit the schools, we took 15 portable solar lights. The cost of each light is $30. They provide ~ 150 lumens and can be hung like a lantern – a very practical design. We wanted to test their durability and usefulness so only took a few.

Kunsang provided complete instructions and within an hour, many other villagers were asking for “light?”

Fire from yak dung or kerosene lanterns is the only light source for most households here and the resulting indoor pollution causes pulmonary and eye disease. Many of the older adults suffer from very poor eyesight due to exposure to long hours of sunlight working in the fields at 14,000 feet elevation. They say these lights have really improved their quality of life.

These lights have proven to be extremely useful and durable; as a general light in the home, to travel to the toilet at night; to help students read and study in the evenings, and to visit neighbours. There have been reports that leaving lights on at night helps to deter snow leopards, especially at high summer camps where some villagers stay to give their animals access to better grazing grounds (and to keep them out of the barley fields!)

We are able to purchase these at considerable discount for charitable purposes through LuminAID and offer very special thanks for their help! 

 Many families rely on fire as their only light source

images courtesy of Pema Wangyal Lama – Saldang School and Pema Gojor – Karang School

Gifts of any amount are most welcome and appreciated! We will be happy to personalize the card for you.

“Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world. For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.”

― Margaret Mead