Enhancing the Wellbeing of Ultra-Rural Children in Laindatang: The Role of Haircuts, Hygiene, and Water Access through Fair Future’s Initiatives
In Laindatang, children cut their hair with scissors as part of a rural hygiene program that promotes health and bonding.
For over two years, we have been tirelessly working on our Water Connections and Malaria projects in the ultra-rural village of Laindatang. While life may seem simple here, things are far from simple. When we first arrived in this remote place, there was no basic road connecting the locals to the nearby towns!
But that didn’t stop us – we rolled up our sleeves and built one, seven kilometres long! The project was worth it because access to clean water is no longer a problem for these children and their families, who previously took this vital resource, which was desired by many, for granted.
Let’s think of the children and their haircuts in this remote area. Without access to electricity, shops or hair salons (even water can sometimes be scarce here), it can seem difficult for them to maintain their appearance. Yet these children are resourceful: armed with just one old pair of scissors (not particularly sharp), they cut their hair at school as part of our hygiene program.
This collective effort costs nothing but is essential given that daily showers are impossible where we work; instead, we teach them how to manage pests like head lice by trimming affected areas when necessary. While it may not be glamorous, knowing what signs to look for helps keep them clean and healthy! With the availability of clean water, washing has become more frequent. However, old habits persist, and so does the joy they bring.
“In Laindatang, a pair of scissors is more than a tool—it’s a symbol of resilience. These kids cut each other’s hair, but they’re really shaping their own future.” – Alex Wettstein, CEO, Fair Future
The children continue to cut their hair tirelessly with scissors like professionals while laughing uncontrollably in an attempt to fix the edges. Although some haircuts are twisted, resulting in abstract styles that can itch or scratch, their enthusiasm is unwavering as they see their activity purely for entertainment. Their new messy looks leave them all smiles as they leave these impromptu hair sessions, ready to proudly show off the unique looks acquired despite their dic nature!
A haircut is not just about grooming but also about bonding and happiness. In these simple moments of bliss, we witness the unwavering determination and enthusiasm of the children here present. Despite their limited resources, they show how to turn every circumstance into something meaningful with little more than scissors and a lot of dedication. After all, isn’t that all life is meant for?
Today, September the 12th, 2024 – Alex Wettstein
Resilience and Laughter: Haircuts and Hygiene in Ultra-Rural Laindatang
How Children Use Simple Tools to Stay Clean and Bond in a Village with No Electricity or “Hair Salon”.
In Laindatang, a remote village, children find joy and resilience in simple acts of hygiene, like cutting each other’s hair with old scissors.
We have been involved in our Water Connections and Malaria initiatives for over two years now, operating in the extremely rural area of Laindatang. Upon arrival at this isolated village, there was no access road to connect it with other regions. Consequently, we constructed a 7-kilometer roadway on our initiative. This project has successfully secured an essential resource that had previously seemed unattainable – clean water– for these families and their children’s needs .
However, life in Laindatang extends beyond mere infrastructure. One can appreciate the simplest things, such as a haircut. These children have cleverly devised ways to attend to their grooming needs despite lacking access to electricity or “hair salons”; they assemble at school to trim each other’s hair using only an old pair of scissors. This hygiene practice may seem insignificant, but it is crucial when daily showers are impossible. We’ve also imparted knowledge on how to prevent lice infestations and maintain cleanliness through necessary trims which further solidifies its value within our community program for basic upkeep practices amongst the residents here in Laindatang Village.
“In Laindatang, hygiene is about more than cleanliness—it’s about community. These children, with their scissors and smiles, remind us of the beauty in resilience.” – Alex Wettstein, CEO, Fair Future
Although clean water is now readily available, cutting hair on the spur of the moment still brings great pleasure. The air resonates with peals of laughter as youngsters snip away at locks and leave behind uneven edges or jagged fringes. But in these moments, joy coincides with strong bonds between participants; creative but determined efforts culminate in small gestures that enhance well-being immeasurably. Despite daunting challenges, such acts showcase how happiness and resilience can emerge if fostered properly—proving just how exceptional life here can be!
We cordially invite all captivated by this story to explore our photo gallery, witness this extraordinary effort, and further engage with our mission through our Instagram account.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – The 12th of September 2024
