Central District Health Department Awarded Federal Grant to Reduce Lead-Based Paint Hazards

Andrew Hills and Jennifer Barrios discussed the lead abatement goal for the Central District Health Department. Listen to the interview below.

Central District Health Department Awarded Federal Grant to Reduce Lead-Based Paint Hazards Grand Island, NE – Central District Health Department (CDHD) has been awarded a grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to address lead-based paint hazards in homes across Hall, Hamilton, and Merrick Counties.

The funding will support testing and removal of lead-based paint in qualifying homes to protect residents, especially young children from the serious health effects of lead exposure. Homes built before 1978 are most at risk, as deteriorating lead paint remains a major source of contamination.

Even small amounts of lead in a child’s blood can cause lifelong developmental and behavioral issues. This three-year grant, running until 2028, will help CDHD build local capacity for safe lead hazard control through training and the use of qualified contractors. The program aims to create a sustainable system for identifying and eliminating lead-based paint risks in the community.

CDHD currently offers free blood lead testing for children and employs a licensed lead-based paint inspector. Homeowners, renters, and landlords may be eligible for assistance based on income, property age, and other criteria.

Learn more: Follow CDHD on social media in the coming weeks for updates on enrollment qualification, and additional program details.