Lead Program

Lead Facts

National surveys estimate that more than 3 million children age 6 and younger have lead poisoning (nearly one out of every six children). More than 75,000 homes in Boone and Winnebago counties were built prior to 1978 and many are likely to contain lead-based paint hazards. See data for Childhood lead poisoning surveillance.

Lead & Your Child

The largest source of lead is paint made before 1978 and the dust created when it decays. This paint was used for many things, including painting the interior and exterior of houses, playground equipment, and toys.

Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning has no obvious signs, and most children do not exhibit any symptoms. Children with lead poisoning sometimes report stomachaches, decreased appetite, hyperactivity, sleeping problems or irritability. Because these symptoms mimic other childhood problems, lead poisoning is sometimes mistaken for a cold or the flu.

Lead poisoning is related to a number of serious health problems. Children with elevated lead levels may have learning disabilities, mental retardation, behavioral problems, lowered intelligence, stunted growth, hearing problems, and problems later in life, such as academic failure, juvenile delinquency, and high blood pressure.

What is "CLSR"?

The “Creating Lead Safe Rockford” (CLSR) Program is a grant program funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development currently available to identify and correct lead hazards in qualifying households in Winnebago & Boone Counties.

This program is managed and administered by the Winnebago County Health Department. Boone County Health Department is a sub-grantee for this program, which means that if you live in Boone County, you may come to our office to fill out an application. This program fields and handles applications and coordinates with licensed lead contractors to do the work to correct lead hazards in the home.

This partnership is responsible for: conducting the initial home inspections to identify lead hazards, approving the work orders, and ensuring the work has been completed successfully in a lead safe manner.

Rental units, owner-occupied units and vacant properties may qualify for the CLSR program.

Funds can only be used to correct lead hazards. Homes which meet the prerequisites but have significant structural defects will not be allowed in the program.

What are the benefits of living in a lead-safe home?

The benefits of living in a lead safe home are endless! Your family will be healthier and happier knowing that they live in a lead-safe environment.

If approved, participants will:

Receive education on lead poisoning prevention.
Learn effective cleaning techniques when dealing with lead dust.
Be informed about various sources of lead that may be found in a household.

AND

If approved, the property will undergo a:

Lead Inspection
Risk Assessment
Lead Hazard Reduction Rehabilitation (i.e. painting, window replacement, specialized cleaning).

A property-owner match requirement must be paid if the owner of the property decides to accept Lead Hazard Reduction rehabilitation through our program.

Owner-occupied units: $250 per unit
Rental Units: $1500 per unit

How do I qualify?

To qualify for CLSR, the following requirements must be met:

Household occupants must meet income guidelines. Families can earn up to 80% of the Area Median Income.
A child under age 6 (72 months) must reside in the household or visit frequently.
All children ages 9 months to 6 years listed on the application should have a venous blood lead test within 45 days of submission. This should be arranged through your family physician/health care provider.
Property must be built prior to 1978.
Be up to date with property taxes and mortgage payments.
Property must have flood insurance if it is located within a flood zone.

How do I apply?

To download the application materials, click on the links below:

Applications require supporting documentation including:

Social Security cards and Photo IDs and/or ITIN
Birth certificates for children under age 6
Federal Tax Return Form 1040
2 recent pay stubs (if applicable)
2 recent checking/savings account statements (if applicable)
Proof of ownership/mortgage in good standing
Documentation of any other income or assets