Chicagoans dropped off caseloads of bottled water to the city’s Southwest Side Thursday in an effort to help some Flint, Michigan residents who are too scared to ask for clean water.
For a time, officials were asking people to show identification to receive clean water, according to Lady Victoria Arteaga with Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Flint. Undocumented residents were not asking for water in fear of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.
That rule has since changed, according to Arteaga. Still, some Flint residents are still not getting the water they need.
“We’re not asking for ID, we’re just asking for you to give us an address so we can mark it off on the map,” said Arteaga.
After hearing about the issue, local radio DJ Terry Cortez, “El Terrible,” on 107.9 FM helped organize a donation effort.
“They need the water just as much as I need the water or the other legal residents of Flint need the water” said Cortez.
Four donation locations have been set around the Chicago area, including the Pilsen Alliance, located at 1744 W. 18th St.
Local
“I have my own family so if I ever needed help I would like someone would help me out as well,” said donor Danny Tafoya. “Pass it on, you know, it doesn't take much.”
Pilsen Alliance volunteer Lawyna Johnson said it's an honor to witness the overwhelming support.
"The outpour of people concerned for one another, it's so beautiful," said Johnson.
Volunteers plan to pass out the donated bottled water to Flint residents on Saturday, Feb. 7, according to organizers.
Organizers are asking for bottled water, five gallon water jugs, and filters that are able to remove lead.
Drop-Off Locations
- Henry Hyde Resource Center: 199 Michael Lane, Addison
- College of DuPage Latino Outreach Center: 2252 S. Marshall Blvd., Room 2225P, Chicago
- Parra’s Bakery: 572 Main St., West Chicago (Leave it on balcony)
- Pilsen Alliance: 1744 W. 18 St., Chicago
