Several groups in Milwaukee are stepping forward to help low-income households with young children purchase water filters. It's all about helping reduce kids’ exposure to lead.
Mayor Barrett recommended, a few weeks ago, that people living in houses built before 1951 buy water filters. The reason – the pipes leading into those homes may contain lead, and lead exposure can cause serious developmental problems, especially in young children.
Because some families might not be able to afford $40 or so for a filter, Barrett announced Thursday that a few organizations are donating $75,000 to help purchase water filters, for those in need. The groups include the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County and the Milwaukee Health Care Partnership.