Freshwater Future Weekly: May 27, 2022
THIS WEEK: Assistance is Now Available for Past Due Water Bills – Please Share! + Thank you to Cassie Chen for her work for Freshwater Future Canada + Less Severe Harmful Algal Blooms Projected for Lake Erie + The Justice Department to Focus on Environmental Justice with New Office
Assistance is Now Available for Past Due Water Bills – Please Share!
The pandemic resulted in unprecedented financial burden for families. The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program, or LIHWAP is a new program that provides funding and prioritizes reconnecting households’ water and assisting those with imminent shutoffs. Freshwater Future and our partners helped push for this program because water is a human right and we know people need help to get back on their feet right now. We are also currently working to ensure that residents are aware of the program and are able to access it. If you know someone who may need this assistance, please share this information on how to apply with them.
Thank you to Cassie Chen for her work for Freshwater Future Canada:
Cassie Chen grew up on the shores of Lake Ontario before leaving to study biochemistry at the University of British Columbia. During that time, she built her background in basic science and science communications. For the past several months, Cassie, a passionate communicator, brought her experience back to her Great Lakes roots, serving an internship with Freshwater Future Canada. Cassie helped us expand our Canadian news in the weekly as well as drafting a very helpful communication plan. Thank you for your efforts Cassie.
Less Severe Harmful Algal Blooms Projected for Lake Erie
Scientists from the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released a projection for Western Lake Erie Algal Blooms anticipating a less severe bloom than in 2021. While this forecast presents good news, the bloom still has the capacity to change and move depending on rain and other factors. Read more about the projection here.
The Justice Department to Focus on Environmental Justice with New Office
The Justice Department has announced the opening of a new office, aimed at addressing environmental efforts and prioritizing communities that are most affected by the climate crisis. This new Department of Environmental Justice will allow them to respond directly to community needs and concerns, especially to communities of color who bear the brunt of damage caused by climate change. With these newly focused efforts, the Department hopes to restore an enforcement tool that would compensate victims and remedy the harm caused.