Representatives from International Pure Water (IPW) told the council they seek funding for a pilot program to deliver water filters and education to 100 families in neighborhoods with aging water infrastructure.

Nairobi Sanchez introduced IPW presenters and the organization’s proposal. “Families across our city, particularly in places like East Boston and Mattapan, are still relying on outdated infrastructure that can allow contaminants like lead, radium, and PFAS to enter into their drinking water,” IPW’s testimony said.

IPW proposed a pilot that would distribute 100 filters (one per household on average), paired with pamphlets and outreach about Boston’s lead pipe replacement program and instructions for use and maintenance. In testimony, IPW said the per-family cost averages about $100 and that IPW would match efforts to scale distribution. “This is a budget smart investment in community health and environmental justice,” the IPW representative said.

IPW asked the council to fund and track the pilot’s outcomes so the program could be scaled if effective. Councilors acknowledged water quality concerns and said the testimony would be considered in the FY26 budget review; no appropriation was approved at the hearing.