Created on Thursday, 02 April 2009 15:06
Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391
Grant Brings Housing Improvements to Indianapolis Neighborhood
Health and Hospital Corporation of Marion County has received more than $874,000 to address health hazards and residential safety in the Martindale Brightwood neighborhood.
The grant will be used to assist up to 400 homes. All participating homes will receive a healthy homes assessment and low-cost intervention tools aimed at reducing home hazards. These tools include: electrical outlet covers, fire extinguishers, protective baby gates, mattress covers for asthma sufferers, pest control measures, tub rails, shower chairs, rug grippers, CO/smoke detectors and other home safety items. Up to 150 homes will receive additional needed repairs to the home such as radon remediation, wheelchair ramps, handrails, door widening, bathroom and kitchen modifications and other identified safety needs for elderly or disabled residents.
The Marion County Health Department will oversee the local grant money through its Lead Safe and Healthy Homes program. All homes serviced through the Healthy Homes grant will be further assessed for lead based paint hazards. If hazards are identified, qualified homes will be enrolled in the lead hazard control program for additional services including window replacement, painting, siding and other hazard reduction measures.
Indiana Congressman Andre Carson announced the grant funding in February. Indiana received more than $12 million for housing and community development projects.
“We are grateful to Congressman Carson and all those who support our efforts to make Indianapolis the healthiest city in the nation,” said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director of the Marion County Health Department.
This is the third major grant the Marion County Health Department has received from HUD to assist in its efforts to provide lead safe and healthy housing to the residents of Marion County.
“I am excited about the opportunity to provide more services through our partnerships with the City of Indianapolis, Community Action of Greater Indianapolis, and community development organizations,” said Karla Johnson, administrator of the Lead Safe and Healthy Homes department.
