When it comes to a living environment, Linn County Public Health wants residents to know that a safe home is a healthy home. That’s why Linn County Public Health, in conjunction with program partners Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity and Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP), are excited to announce the Safe Home Program.
The Safe Home Program will provide eligible residents and/or landlords with financial assistance for healthy home repairs, including lead, pest control, and other fixes. This program was designed to address disproportionally impacted children and residents that were exposed to lead, cockroaches, mold, and other home hazards during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“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.”
To receive assistance through the Safe Home Program, residents and/or landlords must financially or geographically qualify. If the application is approved, households could receive approximately $6,000 in funding for eligible home repairs. Additional funding may be available to assist with elevated blood lead level (EBL) cases in children. This program is made possible through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding that was awarded by the Linn County Board of Supervisors.
Once approved for the program, households will undergo a Healthy Homes Assessment and a short-term radon test to identify home hazards, such as lead, radon, pest control, cleanliness, and mold/moisture. The top 1-2 hazards will be identified and, as funding allows, corrected through the Safe Home Program. Cedar Valley Habitat for Humanity, HACAP, and/or Linn County Public Health will facilitate contractors to perform repairs on properties, as deemed necessary through the Healthy Homes Assessment and program specifications.
Additionally, residents approved for the Safe Home Program will also receive a Healthy Homes Toolkit, which includes a Healthy Homes Guide, cleaning supplies, and other items used to keep a home clean and healthy.
Application information is available on LinnCountyIowa.gov. Applications will be reviewed in the order they were received. To submit applications, individuals can do so via email at [email protected], via mail to: Linn County Public Health, 1020 Sixth St. SE Cedar Rapids, IA 52401; or via drop-off at the Linn County Public Health office.