Sanitation is one of the most essential blocks of public well-being. Every year, on the 19th of November, the UN highlights the global need for safe sanitation, reminding countries that equitable access is fundamental.

AM Foundation, serving as the CSR arm of AM International, is committed to advancing equitable access to sanitation. This is reflected in its focus on WaSH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and embedded into every initiative that strengthens hygiene infrastructure across schools and communities. Since 2019, AM Foundation’s programmes have touched the lives of more than 16 lakh people, ensuring that access, dignity and awareness grow hand in hand.

Creating Safe Spaces

Government-run educational institutions in rural India often lack adequate sanitation facilities. AM Foundation has thus focused on creating and upgrading critical sanitation facilities, with particular attention to ensuring separate, private spaces for girls and boys. These upgraded facilities have a huge impact on the school experience of many students, especially adolescent girls.

Clean and accessible structures like these directly influence regular attendance, reduce dropout risks, and provide a sense of security that supports learning. AM Foundation has supported the creation of sanitation infrastructure for over 40,000 students across Tamil Nadu, helping transform environments into safer, more equitable spaces for learning.

In collaboration with MPL and the Integrated Rural Community Development Society (IRCDS), AM Foundation built inclusive sanitation blocks across multiple government schools in the Thiruvallur district. These facilities are designed specifically to support students with disabilities, and serve over 75 students, ensuring that accessibility and dignity remain at the forefront of school infrastructure.

Awareness leads the way

Infrastructure alone cannot yield the desired results. AM Foundation complements all of its infrastructure initiatives with awareness.

It conducts community outreach and school-based programs like hygiene-awareness sessions and behaviour change workshops. They highlight the importance of hygiene, safe practices, and responsible water usage. These sessions help students understand how everyday habits for maintaining personal cleanliness play a vital role in preventing illness and improving long-term health.

One such initiative is the Happy Periods Programme, created in collaboration with Sanitation First India, which played a critical role in breaking stigma. It has encouraged open conversations, and helped students make informed choices.

Making Bharat Swachh

Aligned with the Swachh Bharat initiative, AM Foundation’s sanitation blocks and awareness sessions contribute to India’s broader vision of a healthier, more equitable future. A future where sanitation and health systems are accessible and inclusive for all.

They also promote the essential aspects of dignity and personal well-being. By enabling safe and more hygienic conditions, the Foundation contributes to stronger community health and a cleaner ecosystem.