By Jenny Vickers, National Communications Manager
Over here at Clean Water Action, I'm getting ready to wrap up the year, and I am thinking of our incredible Clean Water staff, colleagues, members and supporters. I know things have been a bit chaotic in our world recently, but I wanted to share our year-end campaign with you that we've themed Protect What You Love. Our goal is to raise $175,000 by the end of the year and we hope you will join us!
What does Protecting What You Love mean to you? For me, it’s doing everything I can to ensure we have clean water and healthier communities now and for generations to come. Since having my daughter (who is now 6 years old - time please slow down!), I've been incredibly proud to be part of an organization making incredible strides in the lives and health of our kids! Here are just a few examples:
Protecting Our Kids From...
LEAD
Lead is a toxic metal that can be harmful to children's health, even at low levels of exposure. Clean Water Action has long advocated for full replacement of all lead service lines to get the lead out of our drinking water. This past year, EPA announced critical improvements to its Lead and Copper Rule which will better protect children and communities from the risks of lead exposure. EPA's new Safe Drinking Water Act revisions are crucial for Environmental Justice, as lead exposure disproportionately affects low-income and minority communities.
PFAS
Exposure to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) can significantly impact children's health, potentially affecting growth, development, and immune system function. Clean Water has led the way in banning dangerous PFAS “forever” chemicals across the country. Minnesota’s strongest-in-the-nation PFAS law is named Amara’s Law in honor of Amara Strande, a young advocate diagnosed with a rare cancer believed to be a result of PFAS contamination. Amara, who testified in support of the bill, passed away in April 2023.
PLASTICS
Plastic chemicals can significantly impact children's health by disrupting hormone function, potentially leading to developmental issues, reproductive problems, and increased cancer risks. This past year, we significantly expanded our ReThink Disposable program in several states, helping restaurants and institutions switch single-use foodware to sustainable alternatives for a long-term impact. The results are cost-savings, litter prevention, less pollution in local waterways and our ocean.
None of this would have been possible without our supporters and members! Looking ahead, we know we will be facing unprecedented threats to our water and health. But with you by our side, we can continue to do what we do best -- educate, organize, and mobilize to make sure our water and public health are safeguarded and prioritized. Please support Clean Water with a special donation today!
Make a Special Gift Today
Did you know? Contributions made before December 31st may be eligible for tax deductions on your 2024 tax return - make your year-end gift today! Thank you again for your continued support and for being a vital part of our community. I look forward to continuing our work together in 2025 to #ProtectWhatWeLove!
