Charity Water Coolers and Hygienic Drinking Fountains

Public water coolers are a charitable tradition cherished by the people of Kuwait; we find them on the streets, in mosques, and at houses of mourning, providing cold water to passersby, especially during the summer. This practice reflects a spirit of solidarity and charity. The Prophet, peace be upon him, is reported to have said, “The best charity is giving water to drink,” and he also said: “There is no charity with a greater reward than water,” which indicates the great reward and immense virtue of this act. Praise be to Allah that Kuwait has provided public water coolers almost everywhere; this is a good custom with a great reward. I thank everyone who has provided cold water and made it available to the thirsty and those in need… and I ask Allah to reward them with the best of rewards.

However, it is important to pay attention to health and safety, as water can turn from a blessing into a hazard if not properly maintained. Those who set up a public water cooler must ensure its regular maintenance, verify the cleanliness of the tank, and replace the filters on time, so that the water remains pure and safe to drink. Neglecting these matters may lead to the spread of bacteria and germs, and consequently, disease.

On the other hand, there are public drinking fountains that provide running water that can be drunk directly without the need for plastic or paper cups.These fountains are safer because they are connected to the public water supply, and water is not stored in them for long periods. Unfortunately, however, the culture of drinking from fountains is not widespread in Kuwait, and many prefer bottled water or water coolers.

I propose that the Ministry of Commerce and the Kuwait Municipality require large shopping malls to install pressurized water fountains, similar to those found in international airports and some model malls in Kuwait, provided that they are chilled, suitable for both adults and children, and do not require cups. These much-needed fountains would make accessing clean water easier and reduce the use of plastic, which harms the environment.

I also advise everyone to use the insulated water bottles widely available in stores, especially for those who exercise.

It is nice to know that water fountains are not a new concept; they have existed for thousands of years. The Romans were among the first to install water fountains on the streets of Rome to provide water for everyone.

Ultimately, providing water remains one of the best acts of charity, but it requires awareness and a commitment to public health. Let’s ensure the water is clean and help spread a culture of healthy drinking—whether by maintaining public water coolers or supporting the widespread installation of healthy water fountains everywhere… and always!