The latest from Flint
Dawson is the preacher at the North Central Church of Christ in Flint, Mich.
For nearly a year and a half now his community has been dealing with a harsh reality that the water pouring from their faucets is unsafe — filled with lead.
“They’ll tell you it’s safe to bathe in but a lot of people are still having issues with skin irritation, hair loss,” Dawson said.
Dawson met with the Chronicle while on a trip to Oklahoma City, where he spoke at a gospel meeting sponsored by the Eastside Church of Christ. He also took time to speak to students at O klahoma Christian University.
We sat down with him to talk about the latest on the issues in Flint.
The community has been told the pipes would be replaced.
“We keep hearing conflicting reports on the money, the funds, when work is going to start,” he said.
Dawson has been a big part of the conversation, even meeting with President Barack Obam a to talk about the problem. Still, he said there are no signs work to replace the pipes is being done or that it will start soon.
While they wait, Dawson’s family and others continue to rely on bottled water. His family uses it to cook with and his children bathe in bottled water.
“It’s kind of hard to do that yourself as an adult so we try to take a quick shower, get in, get out,” he said.
For months, the North Central church has been distributing water to the community. It’s a daily task that has slowed down but continues for anyone in need.
As for how you can help, Dawson believes right now prayer is the best offering.
“Really just need prayers that the things that need to get done get done and just prayer for our spirits to remain strong so we can keep on doing what needs to be done.”
Those who would like to donate water or make a financial gift can do so as well. Dawson said they will not turn any gift away. Find the church’s mailing address and other contact info at www.northcentralchurchofchrist.com.
