FAIRVIEW -- Clean, safe water is something most of us take for granted. But some people, as close as Marion and Monongalia County, don't take their drinking water for granted at all.

There are about 150 families in Fairview, near the Marion-Monongalia County line, that don't have safe, clean water pumping into their homes.

The Fairview Water Extension Committee is working to get funding for a project that will run city water to the far reaches of Fairview.

John and Katherine Finch live on a farm there.

"We were from the city - we thought water came out of the faucet when you turned it on, and the first time it didn't was a terrific shock," said Finch.

They've adapted to not having water for the last 30 years. Water from the house gutters is gathered to take care of the chickens, peacocks and turkeys in the front yard.

A clean spring feeds the house - if it's rained recently.

"If you don't have water, you can't do anything," Finch said. "Can't cook, can't stay clean."

Others, like Brenda and Larry Kuhn, have water, but it's been ruled unsafe several times in the 35 years they've lived there. Brenda has experienced stomach problems from the high levels of sulfur and iron and must treat their water.

They have spent $700 on water in the last 3 weeks.

"My appliances, my dish washer, my washing machine, it has really ruined a lot for me," she said.

These families - and 140 others - are all hoping they can recover from a rejected grant that will bring city water to those on the outskirts of civilization.

Kathy Ice, chairman of the Fairview Water Extension Project, says it has raised about $500,000 dollars.

"We have gotten a commitment from the Monongalia County Commission for the people who live in Monongalia County," said Ice, "And we have sent a letter out to the Marion County Commission also."

The committee will find out on Wednesday if it will get that funding from Marion County.

Next they hope to hear from Governor Manchin about a Small City Block Grant that will supply the project with $1.5 million. Ice also says she should hear from the Governor's office by the end of the month.