Flint Water and Francine's response

A vision to see all peoples of the world know, worship and grow (KWaG) as disciples of Jesus Christ continues to unfold in the lives of students at Michigan State University.  Francine knows the Lord has work for her to do.  She worships at University Baptist Church.  She is growing in her discipleship by responding to needs in Flint, MI.  I asked Francine to share her story and she's become the first Tending Vision guest blogger.  Thanks Francine!

"I became interested in helping immigrant families at first because there was little help to them. They were undocumented meaning they could not present an ID to receive water. However, I have learned tonight after attending a meeting [hosted by Michigan State University] for student organizations to get involved in helping Flint, that these restrictions have been uplifted. Undocumented people can now receive water, which is such a relief. I also learned that before residents could only receive one package of water per every member of the family, this also has been uplifted.

"This meeting tonight [February 5, 2016] made me change my entire plan for how to get involved and show support. It was made clear that we are not to become a dependent, but we are to work alongside Flint to help them until changes are made and even after because the effects won't simply disappear after the water system is fixed. I and everyone else was surprised by the many different organizations wanting to be involved and I think it would be a great idea to work alongside the other student organizations on campus to offer help to Flint residents.

"You may hear that that Flint does not need water, but this is not true for they are still battling the water shortage. There were so many things discussed in the meeting and we plan to take buses and have fundraisers. Nothing is really set in stone, but there were many great ideas that our student and other officials are smoothing over. MSU is connecting with Flint's organizations to  see what the residents are in need of. Of course we think water, but there are other needs such as liquid formula for infants. I do plan to keep everyone in touch with what is occurring and if you guys want to know more about the plans, please do not hesitate to ask me."

Best,

Francine Barksdale 

barksd11@msu.edu