Building on the successful implementation of the Strengthening Water Security of Vulnerable Island States program, the Pacific Community is assisting member states to improve access to clean water sources and safe hygiene. The initial five-year sub-regional project supported atoll countries to build the skills , systems and basic infrastructure to better anticipate, respond to, and withstand the impacts of drought, while carrying out ground water assessments. In 2019, SPC brought together member states, donor agencies and partners to map out the next phase of assistance for targeted countries.