“Safe Home,” initiative launched by Linn County Public Health

Cedar Rapids, Iowa – The Safe Home Program was introduced this week by Linn County Public Health, Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity, and Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP), program partners.

The Safe Home Program would give qualified homeowners and/or landlords financial support for lead and pest control removal, among other healthy home renovations. This initiative was created to assist children and residents who were disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and were exposed to mildew, cockroaches, lead, and other household dangers.

“The Safe Home Program is an exceptional opportunity for Linn County residents and landlords to receive financial assistance for necessary home repairs,” said Linn County Public Health Director Dr. Pramod Dwivedi. “This program is aimed at ensuring our local residents have access to a safe and healthy living environment. Where you live can have significant impacts on your overall health and well-being.”

Landlords and/or tenants must meet certain financial or geographic requirements in order to be eligible for help under the Safe Home Program. Households may get up to $6,000 in financing if the application is accepted for qualified home repairs. For children with high blood lead levels (EBLs), more money might be available. The Linn County Board of Supervisors provided financing under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to enable this initiative.

Households that are accepted into the program will be required to complete a Healthy Homes Assessment and a brief radon test in order to determine potential health risks associated with lead, radon, pest control, cleanliness, and mold/moisture. The Safe Home Program will identify the top 1-2 hazards and, if funds permits, address them. When repairs to a property are determined to be necessary based on the results of the Healthy Homes Assessment and program guidelines, Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity, HACAP, and/or Linn County Public Health will assist contractors in carrying out such repairs.

A Healthy Homes Toolkit, which consists of a Healthy Homes Guide, cleaning materials, and other items needed to maintain a clean and healthy home, will also be given to people who have been approved for the Safe Home Program.

LinnCountyIowa.gov has the application information. We’ll review applications in the order that they were received. Applications can be sent by email to PHHealthyHomes@LinnCountyIowa.gov, by mail to Linn County Public Health, 1020 6th St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401, or by dropping them off at the public health office located in Linn County.