Lead in Racine’s Water

As you may already know, Flint, Michigan, was drastically affected by lead contamination, and we do not want this crisis to repeat in any other city. Lead in water poses severe health risks, especially to children, including developmental delays, learning difficulties, and other serious health problems. Most homes built before 1970 used lead piping to connect the water main to other pipes throughout the home. Lead was used because it was heavy, malleable, and sturdy, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Unfortunately, this means the problem exists everywhere, not just in Racine, Wisconsin, where an estimated 60,000 to 70,000 homes still have lead pipes.

Big cities like Chicago face even greater challenges due to their larger populations. The presence of lead in drinking water is dangerous because even low levels of lead exposure can cause significant health issues, including neurological damage and kidney problems. In Racine, the issue is particularly pressing. The city’s older infrastructure means many residents are at risk of lead exposure through their drinking water. However, now all residents who are at risk of lead exposure are in the financial situation to replace the portion of lead piping that runs form the street to their home, as it may cost upwards of $3,000 per home. The city does recieve a grant from the government to replace lead pipes, but they can only cover the public side of the pipes, leaving it up to the homeowners to cover the rest. With this being the case, there was a clear need to help lessen the affect of lead in Racine resident’s water.

Our Impact

From our 2019 and 2021 SHOW donated the money raised to the Racine Water Department, which has a lead pipe replacement and protection program. We decided to use the funds to buy 400 water filter jugs and filters. These will be distributed to families in Racine who are currently facing lead issues in their water. This initiative has made a significant impact because we are helping not just 400 individuals but 400 families, protecting approximately 1,600 people from the harms of lead exposure. 

Our efforts aim to mitigate the immediate risks while the city works on long-term solutions. Addressing lead in water is crucial for the health and safety of our communities, and with continued support and awareness, we can prevent the devastating effects seen in Flint from occurring elsewhere.