General FAQ

What is the UNICEF Tap Project?

In 2007, the UNICEF Tap Project was born in New York City based on a simple, tangible and easy-to-implement concept: restaurants would ask their patrons to donate $1 or more for the tap water they usually enjoy for free, and all funds raised would support UNICEF’s efforts to bring clean and accessible water to millions of children around the world.

When will the UNICEF Tap Project take place?

The UNICEF Tap Project takes place each year during World Water Week, which in 2012 is March 19 through March 25, encompassing March 22, the United Nations' World Water Day.

Why a campaign about clean water?

Because clean water is essential, yet nearly 900 million people worldwide lack access to it—and nearly half of those people are children. In alignment with the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, UNICEF is working with its partners to reduce the number of people without access to safe water and basic sanitation by 50% by 2015, which will also save children at risk from waterborne illnesses, the second highest cause of preventable childhood deaths. Every day, 4,100 children die from waterborne illnesses, and UNICEF is committed to doing whatever it takes to make that number zero.

What is World Water Day?

In December of 1992, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 22nd of each year World Day for Water. Countries were invited to devote the day to concrete activities such as the promotion of public awareness, conferences, round tables, seminars and expositions related to the conservation and development of water resources.

Where can I make a donation?

You can make a tax-deductible donation at any time by visiting the DONATE section of tapproject.org. (Please note the minimum online donation is $5.) You can also visit a participating restaurant, attend an event, or make a donation using your mobile phone.

How will the UNICEF Tap Project donations be used?

The money raised will be used to support UNICEF's clean water programs. UNICEF works in more than 90 countries to improve access to safe water and sanitation in schools and communities, and to promote safe hygiene practices. Over the past 16 years, more than a billion people have gained access to improved drinking water and sanitation facilities thanks to the efforts of UNICEF and its partners.

In alignment with the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, UNICEF is working with its partners to reduce the number of people without access to safe water and basic sanitation by 50% by 2015, which will also save children at risk from waterborne illnesses, the second highest cause of preventable childhood deaths.

How can I get involved and help save children’s lives through the UNICEF Tap Project?

There are a number of ways to get involved with the UNICEF Tap Project!

Become a UNICEF Tap Project volunteer.
Become a UNICEF Tap Project participating restaurant.
Donate today and help UNICEF provide children with access to clean water.
Share this website with your friends to get them involved!