On Oct. 31, the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Lead Safe Washington (LSW) program held a Halloween event for local families to educate them on the of major health hazards lead paint poisoning can cause in children.
The children and their parents watched a skit performed by the LSW team about how to recognize the signs of lead paint poisoning and hazards to look for in their homes. The children also had a chance to have story time with DHCD Director Polly Donaldson, and participate in educational games. While the children enjoyed their time, the parents and other adults present received training on lead safe rules and regulations, plus eligibility requirements for grant funding of the program.
LSW tests eligible properties at no charge for lead-based paint hazards. If an eligible property is identified as having lead-based paint hazards, DHCD can provide grant funding up to $25,000 to property owners for the repair of lead-based paint hazards. Renters who are dealing with chipping and peeling paint in their unit are encouraged to ask their landlord to apply.
For more information on the Lead Safe Washington program including how families can qualify for grant funds to remove lead based paints from their homes, visit the DHCD website (dhcd.dc.gov) or call 202-442-7279.