For the McClay family, service is not just a value—it is a way of life. Deeply rooted in their Christian faith, they have woven the ethos of service into their family’s identity, supporting Freshwater Project International in big and impactful ways. Their commitment to providing clean water and sanitation in Malawi has extended across schools, communities, and now, healthcare facilities, where the need is critical.

Witnessing the dire need for water access in Malawi firsthand, the McClays felt compelled to act, answering a higher calling to provide lasting solutions.

Having sponsored an unprecedented 15 community and school water projects in the catchment area around Chulochosema Presbyterian Church and Draper School in Zomba District, the McClays have provided life-changing access to clean water for thousands.

But their work has not been limited to financial contributions—they have personally engaged with the people they serve. Through their close relationship with Pastor Silas and the Chulochosema Church community, they have built lasting connections, listening to the needs of the people and standing alongside them in their mission for better health and well-being.

Supporting Rural Health Centers in Malawi

Serving as an internal medicine hospitalist in Colorado, Dr. Robert McClay’s medical background has given him a firsthand understanding of how essential clean water and sanitation are to patient care.

Witnessing the challenges faced by healthcare workers in Malawi, the family jumped at the opportunity to support Freshwater’s WASH in Healthcare Facilities initiative. Their focus has been on upgrading water systems in some of the most underserved health centers, ensuring that both patients and medical staff have reliable access to clean water.

Their first project supported a new desperately needed water pump at recently upgraded Likangala Health Center in Zomba District. At Namasalima their support helped Freshwater install a brand new septic system—enhancing infection control and patient care and paving the way for further WASH upgrades that were made to the system with Rotary Club of Blantyre and the Rotary E-Club of WASH.

Their impact extended to Malingunde Health Center, in partnership with CCAP-Nkhoma Synod and the Presbytery of Western Mother Carolina where they supported the comprehensive upgrade of the WASH systems including new tank & tower, water distribution system, new septic and new latrines .

At St. Peter’s Hospital on Likoma Island, they supported the upgrade and expansion of the distribution system and new water access points throughout the hospital campus.

Their journey serves as a powerful testament that clean water is more than a basic need—it is a lifeline that restores dignity, empowers communities, and embodies the impact of faith and compassion in action.