How are we supporting Newark in this crisis?
Since August of this year, MEND has mobilized to collect and distribute over 7,500 bottles of water through our existing network of food pantries in Newark. Using our mobile food pantry, a converted school bus called The Green Bean, MEND is setting up collection sites throughout our community to accept water donations and deliver them where they can have the greatest impact. In addition, MEND is collecting donations, which we are using to purchase more bottled water for communities that need it.
MEND will continue organizing a coordinated response to the water crisis that includes ongoing water collection and distribution, partnering with water providers, donor outreach, advocacy, broad volunteer efforts, and a social media campaign—all in service of raising awareness, addressing this critical need, and promoting meaningful and constructive change for our neighbors in Newark.
MEND is also committed to supporting its pantry managers and volunteers, and working with Newark leadership, to address this serious public health crisis. For more information, contact Executive Director Robin Peacock (Robin@mendnj.org or 862.250.5216).
Get Involved
- Water collection: October 18th, 3:00 p.m., at Millburn High School, Millburn, NJ
- Donate: Money goes directly to MEND food pantries to purchase water for their communities. Make a donation.
Resources for Newark Residents
Residents who have lead service lines and live in the Pequannock service area are advised to use bottled water for cooking, drinking and preparing baby formula, according to a statement by the City of Newark. Residents should not boil water to remove lead, according to city officials.
- For additional information and resources, including water pickup locations, visit NewarkLeadServiceLine.com.
- For additional guidance and information on risks related to lead in drinking water, visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Governor Phil Murphy