Deborah Bradshaw, originally from Trinidad in the twin-island state of Trinidad and Tobago, came to the United States more than 40 years ago.

She has worked as the Administrative Assistant since 2008 at Neighborhood Housing Services of Staten Island, now known as Neighborhoods for a Sustainable Future (N4SF).

N4SF has adopted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and encourages its employees to choose a goal they can personally relate to. Deborah chose to explore Goal #6: Clean Water and Sanitation, recognizing these as essential needs for life.

Growing up in Trinidad, Deborah experienced firsthand the challenges of unreliable access to clean water, including frequent shut-offs by the Water and Sewage Authority (WASA). These disruptions often forced communities to fetch water from standpipes or rely on deliveries by water trucks.

During a visit to Tobago, she encountered contaminated water, which led to a skin disorder—highlighting the serious health risks associated with inadequate water and sanitation.

Deborah emphasizes the critical importance of Clean Water and Sanitation in preventing disease, reducing ill health, and improving overall quality of life—especially for women and children. She continues to advocate for safe water access and better hygiene practices as vital components of sustainable development.