Free help is available for Kalamazoo residents that may be at risk of lead exposure in their homes. Through a special purpose grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the City of Kalamazoo funds a Lead Hazard Control Program for city residents through a partnership with KNHS Home Ownership Services (KNHS). The program addresses lead hazards in older homes at no cost to the resident.
Lead is a heavy metal that was used in construction and household paints prior to 1978. Although its use has been banned in residential paint it remains a hazard in older homes. When something containing lead deteriorates it becomes dust and is poisonous if you breathe or eat it.
"Everyone in Kalamazoo should be able to live in their home without having to worry about decades-old lead paint. We're here to help make sure Kalamazoo families are safe in their homes without the risk from lead."
- Christopher Raschke, City of Kalamazoo Community Investment Team
Children can suffer a lifetime of effects from lead poisoning including impaired physical development, lower educational performance, attention problems, and aggressive or even violent behavior. Children under 6 years of age, pregnant women, and developing fetuses are most at risk from lead exposure.
Eligibility
Eligible properties and applicants must:
- Live in the city of Kalamazoo
- Own or Occupy a home built before 1978
- Complete an eligibility application
- Be current on property taxes, or be current in repayment program per county agreement
- Pass initial housing visual inspection (i.e. provide access to all rooms, walls, and windows in home)
- Maintain ownership for min. of three years after work completion
Homeowners:
- Have household income at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI)
Renters:
- Have household income at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI)
- Landlord must agree and participate in process
Other program information:
- Households that have children age six and under residing in or visiting the home (min. 6 hours a week/60 hour a year) will be prioritized. All other eligible applicants will be served based on availability.
- This program only addresses lead-based paint hazards found in homes built before 1978
- Lead-based paint hazard control is done via full abatement and interim controls per HUD guidelines
- Mobile homes and homes being purchased through Land Contract are ineligible for this program.
Apply:
To find out more about the program or to apply, please contact KNHS Home Ownership Services at (269) 385-2916 or lead@knhs.org. You can also visit KNHS.org.
Email KNHS Home Ownership Services to Apply
