GLOW Region receives renewed grant for lead hazard control and healthy homes

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) announced the renewal of a significant grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for its Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes program. This funding, secured for an additional three years, will continue to support efforts to identify and remediate lead-based paint hazards and other health risks in homes across the GLOW region, which includes Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.

Lead exposure poses serious health risks, particularly to children under age 6, whose developing bodies and brains are more vulnerable. Lead poisoning can lead to learning disabilities, lower IQ, attention problems, organ damage, and anemia. In severe cases, it can be fatal. Gabrielle Lanich, Lead Program Coordinator for GO Health, emphasized the importance of prevention, stating, "Lead poisoning is preventable. Preventing exposure before it happens is the most effective way to protect children and families." The renewed grant ensures that GO Health can continue its vital work in making homes safer.

The program offers assistance for lead hazard remediation and other home health improvements for eligible homeowners and tenants. To qualify, applicants must meet specific income eligibility guidelines, and the home must have been built before 1978. A key requirement is the presence of a child under age 6 who resides in or frequently visits the home (8+ hours per week), or a pregnant individual residing in the home. Property taxes and mortgage payments must also be current.

For rental property owners, a 10% match of total project costs is required. Eligible properties include single-family homes and multi-unit buildings with up to four units. Owners must commit to maintaining ownership of the property for at least five years post-project completion. Eligible work may encompass interior and exterior painting using lead-safe practices, window and entry door replacement, porch repairs, soil treatment, and other general health and safety improvements.

All work is carried out by pre-approved local contractors who are 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 via the GO Health website. For more information on eligibility or to be added to the contractor list, residents can contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555 or email [email protected]. Further details on GO Health programs are available at GOHealthNY.org.