A coalition of Bay Area ACWA members have made contact with the communities bordering New Orleans, who need repairs in their water systems to get back on line. We are asking the water community to join with ACWA and these agencies to provide additional financial assistance until FEMA or other agencies are able.

A team of engineers and maintenance personnel from the Bay Area traveled recently to the area to assess where California utilities can help. Another team is now on its way to the area. Currently, the Bay Area has raised $225,000 to provide assistance. This is being offered in the form of mutual aid. Contra Costa Water District is the contact point for communication with the county (parish) government for the area. Due to the limited phones and staff, the parish does not want to be contacted by individuals or ACWA members.

What you can do...

ACWA has set up a special account to collect funds and will coordinate disbursement of those funds to the identified projects. Members are encouraged to publicize this effort with their employees as well. If you wish to contribute, please send checks to ACWA Hurricane Relief Fund, c/o ACWA, 910 K Street, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95814-3512.

For additional information, please read ACWA's member advisory.

Please join with us in offering this vital assistance. If you have any questions, please contact ACWA’s Director of Strategic Coordination and Public Affairs Jennifer Persike, at (916) 441-4545 or at jenniferp@acwa.com, or ACWA Communications Specialist Andy Domek at (916) 441-4545 or andyd@acwa.com.