One of the most glaring needs Ernie observed during his first trip to Uganda was safe, reliable, and timely access to clean water. Women and children risked their safety traveling 3 miles daily to collect water from a contaminated pond, exposing villagers to cholera and dysentery. To help solve this critical issue, Ernie partnered with Drop4Drop, a non-profit organization that provides clean drinking water to countries that need it most.

In October 2015 Ernie was there as the people of Wajinja turned on the clean water tap for the first time. In April 2016 the first 20,000-liter water tank that delivers clean water to Wajinjan homes was turned on. This project has produced four water wells and counting.

The access to clean water has nearly eradicated waterborne disease in Wajinja. Health has improved dramatically. Fresh water has also helped agriculture and brick laying become flourishing industries. Money formerly used to make water accessible is now funneled into different income-generating activities, while eliminating the numerous safety risks previously imposed on women and children.