WALSENBURG, Colo. (March 16, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Southern Colorado and community partners have teamed to support residents of Walsenburg, Colorado, after a major water main break left the community without water, impacting approximately 4,000 residents.

On Friday, March 13, the Colorado Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management contacted Red Cross Disaster Cycle Services leadership about the emergency. Due to Walsenburg's rural location and vulnerable population, the loss of water quickly created urgent humanitarian needs.

Red Cross teams quickly mobilized resources and partners to support the community, including Golden-based Molson Coors Beverage Company, which donated 10 pallets of canned drinking water for residents. The Salvation Army assisted with transportation from Denver to Walsenburg.

American Red Cross volunteers met the shipment upon arrival, helped unload supplies and supported distribution alongside local partners. Throughout the weekend, volunteers also delivered water directly to homebound residents unable to reach distribution sites.

"This response shows the power of community partnerships and volunteers working together to help neighbors in need," said Andrea Miller, regional chief executive officer for the American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming. "Thanks to the generosity and swift collaboration of our partners, residents in Walsenburg were able to receive critical support during a very challenging time."

"In times of crisis or natural disaster, safe, clean drinking water is essential," said Lacey Golonka, community affairs manager at Molson Coors' Golden brewery. "We are proud to do our part to support the Rocky Mountain community."

The situation remains ongoing. Officials have not yet located the source of the water main break and the town continues losing an estimated 1,000 gallons of water per minute. Specialists from Denver Water deployed additional equipment Sunday to help locate the break, though there is currently no timeline for identification or repair.

Red Cross volunteers have scheduled operational support throughout the coming week as the organization continues working alongside local officials and community partners to assist residents.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on social media.