ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The City of St. Petersburg is taking a proactive approach to protect residents from the dangers of lead exposure with the launch of its new Healthy Homes Initiative.
This program aims to raise awareness about household lead hazards and provide resources to help homeowners eliminate lead-based paint from their homes.
The initiative will officially kick off with the Healthy Homes Community Coalition Kickoff Meeting on Thursday, January 23rd, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Pinellas Technical College. This meeting will bring together community members, city officials, and representatives from the Pinellas County Health Department to discuss lead hazards and promote education and awareness.
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“Creating healthy homes is essential for the well-being of our city residents,” said Dr. Avery Slyker, Housing and Community Development Director. “Addressing the hazards of lead paint is a critical step in protecting children from lifelong health issues, ensuring that every home is a safe, nurturing environment.”
The Healthy Homes Initiative will prioritize lead hazard removal in the South St. Petersburg Community Redevelopment Area (CRA), which has been identified as having a higher prevalence of lead-based paint in homes.
Key Components of the Initiative
- Lead Renovation, Repair, and Paint Certification: Contractors and tradespeople will receive training and certification on how to safely work in homes with lead-based paint, complying with EPA and HUD requirements.
- Lead Reduction Grant Program: Eligible homeowners in the South St. Petersburg CRA will be able to apply for funding to remove lead-based paint hazards from their homes.
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The Healthy Homes Initiative represents a comprehensive approach to creating safer living environments for St. Petersburg residents.
By providing education, training, and financial assistance, the city aims to eliminate lead hazards and protect the health of its community, particularly children who are most vulnerable to the effects of lead exposure.
For more information about the Healthy Homes Initiative and the upcoming Community Coalition Kickoff Meeting, please visit stpete.org/HealthyHomes.
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