Global BrightLight Foundation

The Global Brightlight Foundation has one major program, lanterns, which can be broken into three areas of focus. 1. Relief of the poor and distressed or of the underprivileged: indigent individuals who rely on kerosene or other fuels for indoor lighting are uniquely restricted in their opportunities for income production and economic development. As an initial matter, kerosene lamps and other open-flame lighting techniques offer poor illumination and therefore do not provide sufficient or dependable lighting for artisans, merchants, and many other independent proprietors and small business owners who require artificial lighting to continue their income-generating activities after the sun sets. The pv units will provide better and more predictable lighting to support such individuals' economic activities that are vital to provide for their basic needs. In addition, much time and travel often is required to obtain kerosene and other lighting fuel, which reduces the time available for income-producing activity. Again, by providing the pv units, instructing individuals in their use of the pv units, and constantly improving the features of the pv units, the Foundation will assist in the reduction or elimination of these drags on economic production, thereby contributing to the relief of poverty among the most needy. 2. Advancement of education: kerosene lamps and other open-flame lighting techniques, which are often used by the indigent in developing countries around the world, are dim and therefore hinder studying by young people. By offering a more reliable and more effective source of indoor lighting, the Foundation will contribute to higher levels of literacy and other educational attainment by children and youth in the developing world. Moreover, as indicated above, children in homes using the pv units no longer will be required to devote significant time--often hours each day--to assisting their families in procuring kerosene or other fuel for indoor illumination, thereby enhancing school attendance rates and increasing the time available for study at home. In this manner, the Foundation will promote the educational advancement of children and youth in developing countries. 3. Promotion of public health: the use of kerosene lamps indoors can create grave health risks on several fronts. First, burning kerosene releases nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, and impure fuel can release additional pollutants such as extra soot. Additionally, the flames and hot surfaces created by burning kerosene create a risk of burns, and if any flammable vapors are present indoors, the open flame generates a serious risk of explosion. Even trace amounts of gasoline, when mixed with kerosene, can create a risk of explosion. By eliminating the use of open-flame kerosene lamps for indoor illumination through the use of the pv units, the Foundation will contribute to the reduction or elimination of many adverse public health conditions in homes and villages, including respiratory problems and the risk of fire, burns, and explosion. Additionally, a reduction in the use of carbon-emitting kerosene in favor of renewable solar power will contribute to a more sustainable environment. By promoting health in this manner, the Foundation will be advancing a purpose long recognized by the service as charitable.