Staying Healthy in September
Message from HHD Director Larry Brooks
Greetings! I am so proud to share some of the good news regarding the work our dedicated staff is doing here. The department is over thirty years old and remains committed to the vision of a healthy home for everyone. I believe the same desire for environmental justice that drove our founders in People United for a Better Life in Oakland (PUEBLO) to protest and demand that this department be created is here today among our staff! That desire is likely even more potent than in 1987 when PUEBLO began their activism based on one child lead poisoning report from the State and prior awareness of lead poisoning generated by publications and health fairs by the Black Panthers and Brown Berets/Young Lords. Now, we have decades of experience learning about best practices to reduce child lead poisoning and address many other issues in the home that impact health. In fact, the staff just came up with a new slogan that I hope will be embraced by the community we serve: “Better Health, Better Home.”
Visit achhd.org to learn more.
Free Construction Training Program
Opportunity Build students commit to 10-12 weeks of learning and preparing for success in the construction trades. Following up to 325 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on training with retired union tradespeople, graduates receive a full year of employment and job retention support—entirely free.
Free Lead Hazard Repair Grants
Free Lead Paint Hazard Repair Grants for owners of pre-1960 residential properties in Alameda County. Our Lead Hazard Repair Funding approved applicants are provided with free lead testing, grant funding of up to $10,000 per unit for lead paint hazard repairs, free inspection for other healthy housing hazards that may be eligible for additional supplemental funds, and an assigned professional who will provide extensive project assistance to help make your home or property lead-safe.
The Alameda County Newcomers Website
The Alameda County Newcomer Website is user-friendly and designed to assist individuals resettling in Alameda County. The site offers a wide range of information and resources, including those related to basic needs, health care, employment support, legal resources, housing support, governmental resources, and many more.
If you want to learn about the resources available to help you thrive in Alameda County, click here.
Do you have an in-person or virtual event you'd like us to participate in? Whether it is a training, a presentation, or a question & answer session for your community - we want to hear about it! Click here to let us know!
Use a Healthy Housing Checklist
To maintain a healthy home, you should ensure it’s dry, clean, well-ventilated, free from contaminants, pest-free, safe, well-maintained, and thermally comfortable. By practicing good home maintenance, you can effectively reduce allergens, prevent illnesses, and minimize the risk of injuries. It is crucial to prioritize the overall well-being of your entire house to achieve and maintain a healthy home. Refer to this checklist provided by the National Center for Healthy Housing.
Click here for the checklist and follow the basic guidelines.
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