Elkay Joins 501CTHREE to Help Benton Harbor
Water quality has been an ongoing concern in Benton Harbor, Michigan, about 100 miles from Chicago. Issues with water discoloration and odor were reported starting in 2018, and testing revealed ongoing high levels of lead.
Nonprofit 501CTHREE, co-founded by Jaden Smith and Drew Fitzgerald, was started to help with the water crisis in Flint, Michigan; it became apparent that Benton Harbor was also in need of assistance. Elkay had already been donating parts and components from the ezH2O Liv® water dispenser to be used in the nonprofit’s Water Box.
The Water Box uses a four-stage filtration system to help provide clean drinking water to communities in bulk, reducing the need to distribute single-use plastic bottles. Elkay decided to establish a closer long-term relationship with 501CTHREE, and in November 2021, Elkay and 501CTHREE donated a Water Box to Benton Harbor.