Benton Harbor runs out of volunteers as water supply continues

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (WNDU) – The town of Benton Harbor needs help as water distribution sites are starting to run out of volunteers.

Abundant Life Church, which also serves as a water distribution site in Benton Harbor, saw just six volunteers to help distribute 34 pallets of water on Monday afternoon.

However, a surprise to many, one of those volunteers was Michigan State Senator Kim LaSata. As a woman who has grown up around Benton Harbor her entire life, LaSata says she felt it was her duty to help the very people she represents in the 21st District.

“I might be a state senator, but I didn’t grow up easy – I didn’t have an easy life growing up so I know what it’s like to need something. thing. And I know what it’s like to need help right now. So whatever I can do to help, I want to be here, ”LaSata says.

While LaSata says she hopes to continue helping out, she’s not the only prominent figure taking a stand for the region in which she grew up.

Wilson Chandler, a native of Benton Harbor, a former NBA player known for his time as a member of the New York Knicks & Denver Nuggets, continues to help his hometown. A video from Commissioner Duane Seats on Sunday shows Chandler and his own team of volunteers handing out cases of water at Abundant Life Church in Benton Harbor.

Benton Harbor Police Officer Reggie Gee, who volunteered on Monday, said Chandler’s willingness to help was inspiring. Still, Gee says being able to bring volunteers together in a cohesive fashion has been a challenge, especially lately.

“We got 34 pallets of water today with only maybe five to six volunteers and it’s a bit tough on the volunteers too,” Gee says.

Going forward, Gee says people can volunteer by going to United Way of Southwest Michigan or just showing up at a water distribution site like Chandler did.

For those who are homebound or do not have access to transportation, plans are being rolled out to have water delivered to residents who meet the above criteria. Nevertheless, a resident, who wanted to remain anonymous, told 16 News Now that he had not received anything after a week of waiting.

“They said well, we’re going to tell him you’re housebound and this and that. But hey, I need water now! And then you’re going to tell me to wait a few more days and if no one brings you water, call back. This is my second time calling. We need clean water. St. Joe’s had clean water. Why don’t we have clean drinking water? Said the old man.

Anyone experiencing a similar issue with home water delivery is encouraged to contact 211, which is available 24/7. Additional information regarding the dates and locations for collecting bottled water is available at Michigan.gov/MiLeadSafe.

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