RICHMOND, Va. — A Richmond man is organizing a water drive for residents in Flint, Michigan, who are in the midst of a water crisis.
The event organizer, Karanja Cook, said he is collecting cases of bottled water, baby wipes and water filters that he will personally take to Flint this Friday.
Cook said he isn’t related to anyone in Flint, but he felt like it was the right thing to do as he’s learned more about the situation there.
“I feel this is a human issue and as a human on this earth I can’t imagine not helping,” he said.
Flint is dealing with toxic lead contamination in its drinking water following a cost-saving measure by the state. President Barack Obama signed a Federal state of emergency declaration two weeks ago.
Health experts have continued to raise concerns about rising levels of poisonous lead in children’s blood and other health concerns.
You can donate items at the Peter Paul Development Center, located at 1708 N. 22nd St. from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
You can also make donations through Thursday at the Harding Street Urban Agriculture Center, located at 453 Harding St. from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Cook said they are taking donated items until Friday at 6 p.m at the Peter Paul Development Center. He said at that point, he will start the 675 mile drive to Flint to drop off the items.
He said if anyone has any questions about the water drive, contact him on his Facebook page or call him at 804-677-0858.
