Empowering Communities for Clean Water: Erin Brockovich’s Mission in Florida

Erin Brockovich speaking at the Satellite Beach Community Meeting

Empowering Communities to Drive Change

SATELLITE BEACH, FL – Environmental advocate Erin Brockovich and water expert Bob Bowcock traveled across Florida to meet with communities grappling with serious water contamination and public health concerns. Their visit included stops in Fort Pierce, White City, Indian River Drive, Satellite Beach, and St. Lucie County, where they offered expert guidance on how residents can advocate for clean water, hold polluters accountable, and push for stronger legislation.

A Statewide Wake-Up Call on Water Contamination

During community-organized water testing, alarming levels of PFAS chemicals, specifically PFOA and PFOS, were discovered in groundwater, reclaimed water, and sewage across Brevard County. The contamination was especially concerning near Patrick Air Force Base, where toxic chemicals were found in concentrations far above safe limits. In the adjacent neighborhood of South Patrick Shores, residents reported uncovering military debris and burn remnants in their yards, fueling concern over potential long-term health impacts.

Cancer Clusters and Community Outcry

With over 800 reported cancer cases in the area, including among young people, local families began seeking answers. The potential link between military pollution and rare cancers has led to widespread anxiety and calls for environmental justice. Community members gathered at a Fight For Zero event in Satellite Beach to connect with experts like Brockovich, who spent over six hours listening, educating, and strategizing with residents.

"We, the people, take back our voices. It's really important that communities start speaking out and not be afraid to do it." – Erin Brockovich

St. Lucie’s Tragedy: Glioblastoma and Toxic Blooms

In St. Lucie County, Brockovich met privately with families affected by glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive and fatal forms of brain cancer. The unusually high incidence in this region has drawn urgent concern. She also discussed the environmental consequences of toxic blue-green algae blooms, caused by the release of polluted water from Lake Okeechobee, which is impacting both the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee Rivers.

Grassroots Action Led by Fight For Zero

The events were coordinated by Fight For Zero, a grassroots organization advocating for a toxin-free future. Community leader Cheryl Jozsa, survivors, volunteers, and local voices shared their stories and asked critical questions at the Satellite Beach event.

Notable moments included:

A father displaying his daughter's brain scan to highlight the devastating impact of potential toxic exposure
Emotional stories shared by cancer survivors from Satellite Beach High School
Activist Stel Bailey, Dr. Julie Greenwalt, and Brockovich joining forces to amplify community voices

A Movement for Health and Environmental Justice

Brockovich presented her U.S. Health Map, which tracks environmental health hotspots across the country. Her visit wasn’t just about raising awareness—it was a call to action. Communities left with tangible steps for advocating safer environments, reducing chemical exposure, and demanding corporate and governmental accountability.

The legacy of these visits is one of empowerment, education, and action. As environmental threats grow, so does the power of organized communities determined to fight for clean water and protect public health.

Erin Brockovich and water expert Bob Bowcock spoke at the Satellite Beach community meeting on September 29, 2018. Image by DP Braden

Families sharing personal stories of health struggles

Fight For Zero volunteers welcoming guests

A Satellite Beach resident asking questions and voicing concerns. Image by DP Braden

Erin Brockovich showed her health map of the United States found on her website. Image by DP Braden

Stel Bailey and Dr. Greenwalt take a few minutes before the community meeting to introduce Erin Brockovich and Bob Bowcock to the stage. Image by DP Braden

Erin Brockovich with Satellite Beach High School Cancer survivors and fighters at the City of Satelite Beach community meeting on September 29, 2018 Image by DP Braden