Every day, some 1,400 children around the world die from drinking unsafe water or using unsanitary facilities.

But SCHS students can improve these children’s lives – simply by not touching their cell phones for ten straight minutes.

“I would definitely recommend this program to others at SC; I do it when I sleep or when I do homework,” said co-president of Key Club Alex Tran. “Just last night I was able to go six and half hours not touching my phone.”

It’s all part of UNICEF’s Tap Project program. When you reach the project’s website on your mobile phone, it will have a link attached. After clicking onto the link, select begin and put your phone down and the program will begin to time your progress. While the program is timing you, it will also give facts about other people’s progress, UNICEF’s work and other facts as well. Once you lift your phone, the timer will stop.

The Tap Project has been around since 2007. It’s part of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which works in over 100 countries to improve the lives of children in need.

The Tap Project is sponsored by Giorgio Armani Fragrances, Media Vest and UNICEF’s Next Generation.

UNICEF has determined that 768 million people around the world do not have access to clean water to drink.

Clubs such as Key Club and Project Hope that take part in community service are encouraging others to participate in the Tap Project.

“It is such an easy, small thing to do that can help out a lot of people,” said Key Club President Michelle Yang.   

Both club presidents believe that putting down the phone in exchange for a good cause actually solves two problems in one.

“It combines the two problems of the addiction that children have to cellular devices and the fact that some people do not have (clean) water to drink,” said Yang.

Project Hope president Nisreen Abauyed agreed.

“As much as I love using my phone I know my priorities. I think UNICEF is offering a lot in exchange for giving a little. It’s a really great cause,” said Abauyed.

If you are interested in participating in the Tap Project, visit the link below:

uniceftapproject.org