LIMA, OH (WLIO) - According to the CDC, 2.6 million U.S. families are at risk for lead poisoning due to the presence of lead-based paint in their home.
Children under the age of 6 are at high risk for abnormal brain development caused by the absorption of lead. Locally, the West Ohio Community Action Partnership can help you make your home lead-safe. Allen, Auglaize, and Mercer County residents may qualify for up to $20,000 towards home repairs under the Lead Safe Program. Most homes built before 1978 contain lead paint.
"We have the funding to abate the home of lead or use measures that will encapsulate the lead to where the children are not able to get lead dust on their hands. Lead is sweet, so when kids put their hands in their mouths they like to touch the dust again cause they taste like candy," said Karen Anderson, WOCAP housing director.
To see if you qualify for the Lead Safe Program, visit the WOCAP website or call 419-227-2586.
