Seniors in Lehigh Acres paint rain barrels to conserve water and help with bills

LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. —

Seniors at the Lehigh Acres Senior Center are turning barrels into artistic creations to conserve water and raise money for utility bills.

The barrels, donated by Coca-Cola along with conversion kits, are designed to collect rainwater for various uses. Kaitlan Wills, communications coordinator for the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA), explained, "It's got the tubing and the piping. So they go from where the rain gutter is, and then it travels out through there and it goes into the barrel."

Before painting begins, the barrels are prepped to ensure the paint adheres properly. "We actually had the JROTC kids come out from one of the local high schools, and they're the ones who sanded and prepped them," Wills said.

The rain barrels serve multiple purposes, from watering lawns to washing cars, and can be vital during droughts. "Being that we're not getting that much water. If, in fact, we did have some rain and you had water stored with multiple barrels, then it's important," participant Estelita Parker said.

Once the designs are complete, the barrels are auctioned off, with proceeds going to help seniors in need pay their water bills. Wills noted, "So far, they've helped over 51 individuals with their utility bills. And that's three fiscal years for them."

The initiative has raised over $18,000 before this year, providing both financial assistance and a relaxing, therapeutic activity for participants. "It's therapeutic and you're doing it for a good cause," Parker said.

The rain barrels are currently available for auction through May 18. You can get one here.

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