Heavy rains and flooding exacerbate water crisis in Mississippi

For years, residents of Jackson, Mississippi have become accustomed to water supply and quality issues. The problem stems from the city’s aging and neglected water infrastructure that many say is a result of a lack of resources and support at all levels. Jackson’s population decline has also left the town with less financial resources to sustain a public water system that was built for a larger population.  

In late July 2022, a boil-water notice was yet again issued for Jackson. A month later, the water treatment plant was pushed to the brink when torrential rains and flooding left it unable to pump out clean water. The community had either brown water or none at all, people could not use the bathroom or cook, and businesses and schools closed. The ongoing water crisis especially hurts the nearly 25% of residents who live in poverty and are forced to find transportation or money to obtain clean water. 

Coordinating with vendors and local organizations, our Relief Team was on the ground to ensure no one was left without water. We set up potable water distribution sites and allocated large supplies of water to churches, homebound and disabled communities, and schools.