Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and Summit County Public Health are encouraging residents to apply for a new four-year, $6 million federal grant program designed to remove lead hazards from homes with children.
The program targets income-qualified homeowners throughout Summit County who have children living in their homes. In the previous funding cycle, the collaborative effort successfully removed lead from 91 homes across the county.
Widespread Lead Contamination Concerns
County estimates reveal that nearly one-third of residential housing was built before 1940, with more than 75% constructed before 1978, when lead-based paint was banned for residential use. While many homes have undergone lead removal or mitigation, more than 33,000 properties may still contain lead-based paint or other lead contaminants.
“Through our partnership with Summit County Public Health, we are working hard to reduce the risk of lead exposure in our youngest residents, and to remove the financial barriers that impede the ability of homeowners to make safety improvements,” said County Executive Shapiro. “Families should not have to wonder if the home their children play in, sleep in and grow in is a hazard to long-term development and health.”
Health Risks Drive Program Priority
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lead exposure can cause lasting damage to children’s health, including brain and nervous system damage, slowed growth and development, learning and behavior problems, and hearing and speech issues. Research also shows lead exposure can cause harm during pregnancy.
“Lead exposure can have devastating effects on children that last a lifetime. Working with the Executive’s Office and local contractors, we are able to use these federal funds to make homes safe for all members of a family,” said Health Commissioner Christopher Barker. “No family should have to worry that their home is making a child sick.”
Comprehensive Remediation Services
The program works with local contractors to address lead hazards through various methods, including replacing or repairing windows and doors, removing and replacing components with lead-based paint on walls and other surfaces, removing or replacing flooring and carpet, and repairing exterior components such as siding and porches.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Lead Hazard Control Grant, applicants must have income at or below 80% Area Median Income, have children under age 6 residing or visiting the home more than six hours per week, maintain current homeowner’s insurance and be current on property taxes. Rental units are also eligible for assistance.
Additional information and applications are available at https://co.summitoh.net/pages/Lead-Abatement-Program.html.
Discover more from Northeast Ohio News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
