The tea community is often abundant with generous individuals who seek ways in which to truly bring a deeper meaning to the restorative ritual of tea. For a recent example of such generosity we can look to SerendipiTea’s recent partnership with WaterAid, the #1 ranked international non-profit dedicated to helping the world’s poorest people gain access to safe water, toilets and hygiene. Considering that this is a time of good intentions and resolutions, it seems rather appropriate that we ponder the tremendous value of water. In the piece below, Linda Villano, co-founder of SerendipiTea, shares details about the partnership, perspectives from WaterAid, and how steeps of Masala Chai tea can be charitable.
Young woman at new water source in Zambia. Photo credit: WaterAid/Chileshe Chanda
Nothing is more important in the preparation of tea than water and all too often this precious natural resource is taken for granted. With deep gratitude for WaterAid’s noble global mission, SerendipiTea recently announced its partnership with this organization, the #1 ranked international non-profit dedicated to helping the world’s poorest people gain access to safe water, toilets and hygiene. WaterAid works in 37 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Pacific region, many of which are tea-growing nations. Since 1981, WaterAid has reached 21 million people with safe water and, since 2004, 19 million people with toilets and sanitation.
“At WaterAid, we’re out to change the world. We believe that clean water, toilets and hygiene are the key to transforming the lives of millions of people who continue to be trapped in a vicious cycle of poverty, and we are thrilled that SerendipiTea is teaming up with us to change the equation for those most in need,” said Sarah Dobsevage, Director of Strategic Partnerships at WaterAid America.
SerendipiTea contributes 20% of all sales of Mandela Masala to the organization. Mandela Masala is a warm, spicy caffeine-free blend of Rooibos, Honeybush, Cinnamon, Clove, Ginger, Cardamom and crushed Pepper. This certified organic recipe is delicious all year round and makes fabulous Masala Chai.
Mandela Masala Photo credit: SerendipiTea
“Tea is a vibrant part of the culture in many of the 37 countries where WaterAid has programs and influence. This partnership offers the perfect opportunity for SerendipiTea customers to help in a small but significant way as we work towards a world where everyone, everywhere has access to basic clean water and toilets,” Ms. Dobsevage adds. Rooibos and Honeybush, the two anchor ingredients in Mandela Masala, are indigenous to and only grow in South Africa where Wateraid has a regional office which supports crucial programs in numerous southern African countries including Madagascar, Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique. Thus, SerendipiTea and Wateraid selected Mandela Masala as an apt representation of this new partnership.
SerendipiTea and WaterAid hope that during this Season of Giving consumers will consider Gifts that Give More.
The Daily Tea readers will receive a complimentary Strawberry Kisses Lip Balm with the purchase of Mandela Masala (4 oz. Box or 1 lb Bag) at www.serendipiTea.com by using the following Coupon Code at check-out: GIVE MORE
SerendipiTea, an artisanal NY-based operation established in 1995, is known for its wide assortment of Premium Loose Leaf Tea and Tisane, including an extensive variety of certified organic, biodynamic, traditional and creatively blended options.
Connect with WaterAid at www.facebook.com/WaterAidAmerica and @WaterAidAmerica, or find out more at www.wateraid.org.
First image: Students study in Chiyoobola primary school where WaterAid helped build a borehole and clean water pump, Zambia. Credit: WaterAid/Candace Feit
