There is another water woe in Michigan. Steps to reduce corrosion in aging water pipes began in 2019, just a few months after tests revealed concerning results in Benton Harbor. Now, some in Grand Rapids are gathering bottled water to send to Benton Harbor.

Get our free mobile app
Photo by Hans Reniers on Unsplash
Photo by Hans Reniers on Unsplash
loading...

Liesl Clark, the head of Michigan’s environmental agency, told the AP that according to a federal study, filters can work effectively with the city’s tap water. However, replacement of about 6,000 old water lines at homes could take 2 years and between $19 and $30 million.

Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash
Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash
loading...

In the meantime, Benton Harbor residents are urged to use bottled water for drinking and cooking. The Senior Pastor at First Community AME Church in Grand Rapids is leading the charge to get safe botted water from here to Benton Harbor. The water collection drive started last week, and they've collected about 20 cases and gallons so far.

Photo by HONG FENG on Unsplash
Photo by HONG FENG on Unsplash
loading...

Anyone interested in donating a case of bottled water or a gallon of water can visit First Community AME Church, 500 James Ave. SE, between 10 A.M. and 2 P.M. during the work week or call (616) 459-0151 to set up an appointment.

Rev. Dr. Gholston says,

"We don't know how long this crisis is going to last, and we don't want any body to be in need."

The church is teaming up with the Grand Rapids African-American Health Institute, and drop-offs can be made there at 500 Lafayette Ave. NE between 9 A.M. and 5 P.M. Monday through Friday.

Photo by RephiLe water on Unsplash
Photo by RephiLe water on Unsplash
loading...

After they complete the first water drop-off on Nov. 1st, the groups plan to continue the water collection drive through the month of November.

Photo by Universal Eye on Unsplash
Photo by Universal Eye on Unsplash
loading...

Clark told the AP,

"The situation in Benton Harbor is urgent and inexcusable."

Others are saying this is not a crisis and not to compare it to the Flint water crisis.

More From Mix 95.7