Flint Water Crisis – What can UU's Do Right Now?
From Mid-America Region of UUA:
Flint Michigan Water Crisis
Dear Good People,
Thank you for your interest and support. Here are a few remarks and suggestions concerning the water crisis in Flint. First and foremost, the crisis is not exaggerated. The pipes are corroded, the water is contaminated, distribution of water and water filters is a welcome but totally inadequate response. Fixing the now ruined infrastructure is both necessary and costly.
Importantly, testing has clearly shown elevated levels of lead in the systems of Flint children. Know this: the effects of lead poisoning are permanent and affect the cognitive, physical, regulatory, social, and behavioral aspects of the individual. They cause learning, behavioral, attentional, and physiological problems, potentially for the rest of one's life. For children, treatment consists of immediate riddance of the lead source, healthy diet, increases in Vitamins C, calcium, zinc, phosphorous and iron; educational, language, hearing, behavioral and mental health resources and assistance.
Please spread the word. Test the water in your area. Be mindful of the toxic materials we are placing into our environment as a result of the plastic and chemicals being utilized.
How can you help? (Please avoid plastic water bottles) If you would like to donate funds
www.flintkids.org – The Flint Child Health & Development Fund will support the delivery of critical public health, medical, and community-based services and interventions that address and mitigate the short and long term impacts experienced by Flint's children who have been exposed to lead.
www.unitedwaygenesee.org – a fund for the purchase of filters, bottled water, emergency support services and prevention efforts. 100% of the fund is used for these projects and no administrative Fee is assessed.
http://www.redcross.org/local/mi – Michigan Red Cross, Flint Chapter, 1401 S Grand Traverse St, Flint, MI 48503 Phone:(810) 232-1401
Elizabeth Siftar, Green Sanctuary