The community of Bensa Ware Kebele is home to 8,000 people, and until earlier this year, they suffered as a result of an unsafe and polluted water supply.  A project to remedy the problem was started by the Sidamo Development Association, a local non government organisation, in 1999, but stopped when it ran out of money. Starbucks coffee buyers, who have bought coffee from the community for many years, became aware of the problem and fundraising began in the UK. 

This initiative is just one example of Starbucks commitment to initiatives that improve the lives of coffee growers and their communities, and to ensuring a long-term sustainable supply of the best quality coffee.