Lead Safe Coalition

In 2020, the Foundation’s $5 million catalyst grant helped launch the Lead Safe Home Fund to improve Cleveland's housing and prevent childhood lead exposure. This funding was pivotal in securing additional resources and establishing the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition, now with over 500 members. Working with the city, the Coalition pushed for a 2019 ordinance requiring lead-safe certification for rental properties. Recognizing that policy alone wasn’t enough, they created a comprehensive strategy combining resources to aid families and property owners. The Lead Safe Home Fund supports this strategy by providing loans and grants for lead-safe repairs and operating a Lead Safe Resource Center. The Center offers navigation, workforce development, and resident services to address lead poisoning issues and compliance with the new ordinance. The Foundation is proud to partner with the Coalition, recognizing that lead poisoning in urban communities significantly impairs cognitive development and contributes to long-term health disparities, especially for low-income families exposed to deteriorating housing conditions.