Water safety organisation Wells of Life will honour Pope Francis by dedicating the first well funded by its World Water Day walkathon to him.

"Pope Francis believes, as we do, in the power to transform lives, communities, and indeed the world, one act at a time," the nonprofit's founder, Nick Jordan, said in a statement.

The walkathon took place on Sunday at Santa Margarita High School in Orange, California, and raised money to provide safe water for the people of Uganda. A second well will be dedicated to University of Southern California star athlete Garrett Breeland, who recently passed away at the age of 51.

"Garrett Breeland dedicated his time as a faithful servant of God, ministering to students in five high schools and the local community," Jordan explained. "Children face so many challenges. Garrett shared Wells of Life's vision of inspiring local communities to serve together while expanding their perspectives."

World Water Day was designated by the United Nations in 1993, and falls on March 22 each year. The observance promotes sustainable development and clean water for people around the world.

Pope Francis called water "the most essential element for life" during his weekly St Peter's Square address on Sunday, and said that more should be done to ensure water supplies are protected and available for everyone.

"Humanity's future depends on our ability to care for it and share it," he said of the vital resource. Francis also quoted his namesake, St Francis of Assisi, in praise of water's usefulness.

The walkathon was led by six-year-old Wells of Life youth ambassador, Grand Marshall, Eli Martin. The Martin family has funded five wells for the organisation, and plans to fund two more in the near future. To date, Wells of Life has installed over 130 wells.