CommUnityCare Health Centers to Offer No-Cost Community Lead Testing Events Following Austin’s Colony Water Study
Published July 22, 2026
Updated August 15, 2026
A recently published University of Texas study on drinking water quality in Austin’s Colony has brought increased attention to potential lead exposure in portions of the Hornsby Bend area. In response, CommUnityCare Health Centers is hosting no-cost community lead testing events to help residents better understand their potential exposure and connect them with care and resources. Children and pregnant people are especially encouraged to participate.
Lead Testing Events
The events are for community members who have not already been tested and:
- Currently live or previously lived in ZIP codes 78725, 78724 OR
- Regularly consumed tap water from ZIP codes 78725, 78724
Upcoming Events:
Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m
Schedule your screening HERE. Walk-ins welcome, as space allows.
Saturday, September 26, 2026 | 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m
Schedule your screening HERE. Walk-ins welcome, as space allows.
Past Events:
Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dailey Middle School | 14000 Westall St., Austin, TX 78725
Why Blood Lead Testing Matters
Lead exposure can affect people of all ages and can harm the brain and nervous system. Because lead exposure often has no symptoms, many people do not realize they have been exposed. A blood lead test is the best way to determine whether lead has entered the body and whether follow-up care is recommended.
“Protecting the health of our community is our top priority,” said Dr. Michael Stefanowicz, Chief Health Officer at CommUnityCare Health Centers. “Because lead exposure often has no symptoms, testing is an important first step. We’re committed to making blood lead screening accessible and ensuring every family has the information, care and follow-up they need.”
Blood lead screening is available for people of all ages. The following groups are especially encouraged to get tested because they may be at greater risk from lead exposure:
- Infants who drink formula mixed with tap water
- Children younger than 6 years old
- Pregnant people
- People who are breastfeeding
If additional testing or treatment is needed, CommUnityCare care teams will work with patients to develop a personalized follow-up plan and connect them with the resources they need.
“If your family isn’t already connected with a primary care provider, we invite you to make CommUnityCare your health home,” said Dr. Stefanowicz. “It’s the best way for us to care for your children and your whole family, today and for years to come.”
Learn More About Lead Exposure
Have questions about lead exposure or blood lead testing?
Visit our CommunityStrong blog, “Concerned About Lead Exposure? Understand Your Risk and When to Get Tested,” for trusted health information from Dr. Stefanowicz, prevention tips, answers to frequently asked questions and additional community resources.
UT Study on Austin’s Colony Drinking Water
Read the published research: https://journals.plos.org/water/article?id=10.1371/journal.pwat.0000496