CommUnityCare Health Centers to Offer No-Cost Community Lead Testing Event Following Austin’s Colony Water Study

Published July 22, 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 a no-cost community lead testing event to help residents better understand their potential exposure and connect them with care and resources.

“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’recommitted to making blood lead screening accessible and ensuring every family has the information, care and follow-up they need.”

Lead Testing Event

Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Dailey Middle School | 14000 Westall St., Austin, TX 78725

Please complete preregistration for testing

English: MyChart – Schedule an Appointment
Spanish: MyChart – Schedule an Appointment

The event is for community members who:

Currently live or previously lived in ZIP codes 78725, 78724
Regularly consumed tap water from ZIP codes 78725, 78724

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

Event Resources Include:

No-cost blood lead testing
Lead exposure education
Bottled water distribution
Community resources and needs assessment

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.

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 our Dr. Stefanowicz, prevention tips, answers to frequently asked questions and additional community resources.