Mayor Vi Lyles | City of Charlotte website
Mayor Vi Lyles | City of Charlotte website
Charlotte, N.C. - The city has received a significant grant of $3,573,037 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes. The grant aims to address and mitigate lead paint hazards in low-income housing.
The funding will be used to expand the city's LeadSafe Charlotte program, which is a key initiative of the Housing and Neighborhood Services department. This program focuses on testing, risk evaluation, control, and reduction of lead paint hazards, particularly in older residential properties where lead paint is still prevalent.
According to the National Center for Healthy Housing, 39% of homes in North Carolina, built before 1978, are at risk of containing lead-based paint. This type of paint is a known health hazard, especially for children under the age of six.
"LeadSafe Charlotte has been instrumental in making homes safer for families, particularly young children, who are most vulnerable to the effects of lead exposure," said a spokesperson for the city.
Since its inception, the LeadSafe Charlotte program has successfully identified and removed lead hazards from 2,265 residential properties. With the new grant, the city plans to extend its reach even further.
Over the next four years, the city aims to test more than 180 housing units for lead and remove lead hazards from up to 100 housing units. This will make a significant impact on reducing the risk of lead exposure for residents in low-income housing.
The city's housing rehab program has been a crucial component in achieving these goals. By addressing lead hazards, the program ensures that families have a safe and healthy living environment.
The grant from HUD's Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes will greatly support the ongoing efforts of the city in tackling lead-based paint hazards in Charlotte.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about the city's housing rehab program and take advantage of the resources available to ensure the safety of their homes and families.
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