Media Corner

For Immediate Release
April 29, 2004

Local Volunteers Earn Funds for Saving Water

East Los Angeles - Central Basin Municipal Water District proudly presented Volunteers of East Los Angeles (VELA) with a check for $3,750 on Wednesday, April 28th for their participation in the Ultra-Low-Flush (ULF) Toilet Distribution program. On November 22, 2003, volunteers from VELA, a non-profit community based organization, helped Central Basin distribute 500 free ultra-low-flush toilets to the residents of East Los Angeles. Danny Ramos, president of VELA, accepted the check on behalf of the group.

Since 1995, Central Basin has worked with non-profit, community-based organizations and local high schools to promote conservation programs while helping them earn money for their assistance. These organizations receive funding for each old "water-wasting" toilet that is returned for recycling. The money raised is used for purchasing supplies and equipment needed by the groups.

Director George Cole, Director for Central Basin's Division III which includes East Los Angeles, explained, "These events are more than about water conservation. They are an opportunity for us to work together with our community members and build lasting relationships."

The ULF Toilet distribution program was established to provide the public with free high- quality toilets that save an average of 26 gallons of water per day. This translates into savings of more than 4 million gallons annually. The programs are conducted annually throughout Central Basin's service area.

(left to right) Danny Ramos, Director George Cole & Gil Rivera (front) Elena Valencia