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The most common means for children to become poisoned is from contact with lead dust found in older homes. Typically this happens through hand-to-mouth contact and when renovations and remodeling take place without proper precautions. Low level exposure to lead in children under age six can result in reduced IQ, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, behavioral problems and kidney damage. High levels of exposure, though rare, can lead to mental retardation, coma and even death. Elevated blood lead levels in pregnant woman can be transferred to the child.
Funding for the Portland Lead Safe Housing Program comes from a special 3-year grant from the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). This is the City’s forth grant program since 1995.
1) Community Education
2) Testing and Case Management
3) Direct Lead Hazard Control
Program activities are conducted in conformance with the regulations issued by HUD, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Maine Departments of Health and Human Services and Environmental Protection. All units and participants selected for the program shall meet eligibility requirements established by HUD.