Press release
Lead is a harmful metal that can make people very sick, especially young children. Kids under age 6 are more at risk because their bodies and brains are still growing. Lead can cause problems with learning, lower IQ, trouble paying attention, damage to organs, and a blood condition called anemia. At very high levels, lead poisoning can even cause death. “Lead poisoning is preventable,” stated Gabrielle Lanich, Lead Program Coordinator of the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “Preventing exposure before it happens is the most effective way to protect children and families.”
GO Health is happy to share that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Lead Hazard Control and Health Homes grant has been renewed for three more years. This funding will help people who live in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming (GLOW) counties. The program allows the Genesee County Health Department to find and fix dangers from lead paint and other health risks in homes. This means we can keep helping more families and making homes safer and healthier. The grant pays for fixing lead hazards and some other home health improvements in homes and apartments in the GLOW region.
To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
· Tenants or homeowners must meet income eligibility guidelines (limited funds may be available for vacant units—please call for details)
· The home must have been built prior to 1978
· A child under the age of 6 resides in the home, visits frequently (8+ hours per week), or a pregnant individual resides in the home
· Lead-based paint hazards must be present
· Property taxes and mortgage payments must be current
· Additional requirements may apply on a case-by-case basis
For rental property owners:
· A 10% match of total project costs is required (e.g., $2,000 for a $20,000 project)
· Eligible properties include single-family homes and multi-unit properties with up to four units
· Owners must maintain ownership of the property for at least five years after project completion
Examples of eligible work may include:
· Interior and exterior painting (lead-safe)
· Window replacement
· Entry door replacement
· Porch repair or replacement
· Soil treatment and landscaping
· Other general repairs to improve health and safety
All work is performed by pre-approved local contractors who are trained and EPA-certified in lead-safe work practices. Contractors interested in participating in the program are encouraged to contact the Genesee County Health Department or apply through the GO Health website. For more information, assistance with eligibility, or to be added to the contractor list, please contact:
Genesee County Health Department
Phone: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555 Email: Health.GOlead@geneseeny.gov
Website: bit.ly/GOHealthLeadPrevention
For more information on other GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org and follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram, and X at GOHealthNY.