Free Water Tests Help Latino Families After Hurricane Helene.
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After Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina, many families are still not sure if the water in their homes is safe to drink. A group called Wine To Water, also known as WTW, is helping by offering free water tests in 22 counties in western North Carolina. They are especially trying to help Latino families who use wells or other unregulated water systems.
The water tests are done at people’s homes. A team member, like Pedro Martínez, visits the house, talks to the family, and takes three samples from a faucet. One sample checks for bacteria. The other two test things like pH, metals, and solids. If a family wants to test for lead, they can ask for that too. This is especially important for homes built before 1987, because old pipes may leak dangerous materials.
These tests are fast and private. They usually take about 15 to 20 minutes. The WTW team wants families to feel safe and comfortable while learning about their water.
Hurricane Helene caused big floods. The water washed over garbage, cars, oil, animal waste, and other dirty things. If someone drinks that water, it can be dangerous. Most people who use city water are safe because their water is cleaned and checked. But families who use private wells or springs are at more risk. Sometimes the water looks clean, but it can still be full of dangerous things you cannot see.
Wine To Water is not new to this kind of work. The group started 20 years ago and has helped during big disasters like the earthquake in Haiti and wildfires in Hawaii. After Hurricane Helene, they gave out clean water, supplies, filters, and even helped families find temporary homes.
Now they want to do more than just help during the emergency. WTW is working to educate people and connect them with resources to fix any problems they find in their water.
Pedro Martínez says it is very important to help Latino families who may not have access to these services. Many of these families live in rural areas and may not speak English well or have the money to pay for expensive tests. WTW offers bilingual help and does not ask for immigration papers. They want everyone to feel welcome and supported.
Anyone who wants to use the free water testing program can call 828-773-0207 or visit the website www.wtw.org. The program is open and does not have a closing date yet.
