Grant will enhance safe and healthy housing for Central Ohio residents
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has been awarded a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through its Healthy Homes Program. The funding will support efforts to address housing-related health and safety hazards in Central Ohio.
The Healthy Homes Initiative (HHI) was established in 1999 to protect children and families from environmental hazards in their homes. Each year, millions of children are affected by unsafe housing conditions, including exposure to lead, mold and carbon monoxide. The initiative takes a comprehensive approach to home safety, while supporting HUD’s successful Lead Hazard Control program.
“Many homes built before 1978 contain lead-based paint, which can pose serious health risks—especially to young children. We are honored to receive this second round of funding from HUD which will allow us to address critical health and safety concerns, such as accessibility, radon, mold testing and remediation. This grant provides essential support to some of our most vulnerable community members, ensuring they can remain in safe, healthy and accessible homes.”
This grant will allow MORPC to target public outreach efforts, focusing on historically disadvantaged and underserved communities. The initiative will provide education on lead exposure prevention and mitigation strategies. MORPC will also collaborate with local partners to conduct home inspections and risk assessments to identify and address hazards.
“Every year, millions of children are affected by lead poisoning and environmental hazards in their community, with low-income families being at risk the most. This funding, initiated last year, will improve the living conditions of Ohio’s children, keeping their treasured childhood homes, safe and healthy. It’s a step forward in ensuring that every child is protected, regardless of their socioeconomic status.”
MORPC anticipates grant activities will take place from 2025-2027.
For more information visit Free Residential Services – MORPC.org or contact info@morpc.org.
