Residents in Benton Harbor can still receive free water filters, filter cartridge refills and filter installation help from the Berrien County Health Department.

The health department first launched the filter initiative in 2019 when lead concerns in the city’s drinking water were raised. A recent study of 200 Benton Harbor homes conducted by the E-P-A found that when properly installed and maintained, filters effectively reduce excessive lead in drinking water. When residents request a filter, they will be asked if they need help installing the unit. For those who need it, a representative of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will come to their home within one business day.

Benton Harbor residents can receive a free certified filter and replacement cartridges by mail by calling 844.875.9211. They also can visit BCHD at 2149 E. Napier Ave. from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday or the Center for Better Health at 100 W. Main St. from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Both locations are in Benton Harbor, and neither requires appointments.

Each household will receive a new filter unit and six months of replacement cartridges. After six months, BCHD will follow up with residents to proactively fulfill cartridge replacement needs.

BCHD advises that if you choose to buy a filter, you must read the packaging to be sure it says the filter is certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53 for lead reduction and certified for NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for particulate reduction.

MDHHS is still distributing bottled water to city residents through a local-state partnership. Information about distribution locations and times can be found at WWW.Michigan.gov/MiLeadSafe.

To arrange water delivery to homebound or residents without transportation in the City of Benton Harbor, contact 211, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Phones that cannot contact 211 should contact 844.875.9211.