Leaders with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD, announced millions in investments in rural communities across New York state to reduce and prevent lead exposure to children and their families.

What You Need To Know

  • To mark National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, HUD announces more than $160M to a handful of rural communities
  • Cattaraugus and Allegany health departments held a press event to receive their money
  • Funding will go toward testing older homes and young kids

"We're trying to really emphasize that lead poisoning is 100% preventable. It takes a little bit of education [and] a lot of effort," said Bruce Haber, Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes, HUD.

That effort includes identifying and testing older homes built before 1978, as well as young children who've been exposed to lead or who've ingested it.

Leaders say there is no safe amount for kids if it gets in their bloodstream, as many are known to eat paint chips off old windows and doors.

"It can harm a young child's growth, a child's behavior and a child's ability to learn,” said Dr. Kevin Watkins, public health director, Cattaraugus County. “It has been associated with delayed puberty, lowered IQ and hyper-activity. [Also] attention, behavior and learning problems. It can also cause anemia, kidney damage and hearing loss.”

"Data shows that income and poverty levels play a huge role in poising of children," said Jami D'Arcy, deputy public health director, Allegany County.

Health leaders say the money will not only help children, but improve the look of neighborhoods, increase property values, attract new business and stimulate local economies.

"Lead hazards are also concentrated in low-income neighborhoods. By addressing these hazards, we take a significant step toward environmental justice,” said Melissa Chamberlin, RN, Cattaraugus County Department of Health. “Everyone deserves to live in safe and healthy environment.”

Parents are also encouraged to get their children and homes tested.