About the Program
The RCAP WIIN Program is a crucial initiative that aims to significantly reduce lead exposure in drinking water within schools and childcare facilities, particularly in rural and disadvantaged communities. This program represents a dedicated effort to tackle the pressing issue of lead contamination, which poses severe health risks, especially for children. Exposure to lead can cause adverse health effects such as damage to the brain and nervous system and inhibited growth and development.
By collaborating with regulatory agencies, water system partners, and educational institutions, RCAP is poised to address identified lead challenges effectively. The program encompasses comprehensive site assessments and remediation plans tailored to each facility’s unique needs. Furthermore, it includes the installation of vital infrastructure such as water bottle filling stations and Point of Use (POU) filters that serve as immediate solutions for mitigating lead exposure.
Building on the foundation laid by the Agua4All program, WIIN focuses on lead testing, education, and remediation. Field staff will conduct thorough site assessments and recommend necessary interventions – including fixture replacements – to ensure safe drinking water access. To further support these efforts, RCAP will provide education, outreach, pre- and post-remediation lead testing, replacement filters, and even free reusable water bottles.
- More information on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s WIIN program is available here.
- EPA’s information about Training, Testing, and Taking Action (3Ts) for Reducing Lead in Drinking Water is available here.
- Download the RCAP National WIIN Program flyer here.
- Download the RCAP Solutions WIIN Program flyer here.
Who will benefit from this program?
- Staff and students/children of participating schools/childcare facilities.
- State departments of health, departments of education, and drinking water regulatory authorities where the participating schools/childcare facilities are located.
- Local public water systems serving the participating facility (if applicable).
Our Work in New Hampshire
RCAP Solutions is committed to focusing on New Hampshire as a pilot state for this initiative, with aspirations to expand into more states as resources allow. Lead contamination remains a pervasive challenge; New Hampshire’s dedicated funding and proactive approach provides an opportunity to have significant impact.
- Learn more about how the NH Department of Environmental Services is helping facilities achieve compliance with lead sampling requirements.
Have Questions? Want to See if Your School Qualifies?
If you have any questions or are interested in learning more about this program, please contact Brian Scadova-Vose via email: bvose@rcapsolutions.org or phone: (603) 762-6966
Watch our Video: Increasing Access to Clean Drinking Water in Schools
In 2021, RCAP Solutions made significant strides by bringing vital water filling stations to two western Massachusetts schools. The installation of these stations is a crucial step toward ensuring that every child has access to safe drinking water throughout their school day. To see the difference being made firsthand, check out our video! Together, through programs like Agua4All and EPA’s WIIN program, we can ensure that clean drinking water is within reach for everyone.