The Dallas County Public Health Department, in partnership with the Polk County Public Health Department, has been awarded funding through a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to assist county residents in financing home improvements in order to remove lead-painted surfaces, such as siding or window trim.
A few requirements are necessary to be eligible. The home needs to have been built before 1978 and must be owner occupied, that is, it must be privately owned and not rented.
Residents must also meet the income requirements and have a child under the age of 6 living in or visiting the home on two or more days a week. Visits need to last longer than three hours.
Documents needed for the application process include photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, bank statements, utility bills and proof of homeowner’s insurance.
All homeowners are encouraged to apply. There are limited funds available to both Polk County and Dallas County residents, so applicants should apply now in order to ensure their homes are fixed.
The Health Navigation team of the Dallas County Public Health Department is able to meet with potential applicants in their homes to assist with filling out the application and finding the right documents or answering any questions. For more information, call Ann or Rhonda at 515-993-3750.
Megan Schuchard is a public health intern in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
