HOUSTON – Lead-based paint was banned decades ago, but it can still be found in homes built before 1978. When that paint chips or turns to dust, health experts say young children face the greatest risk.
The Houston Health Department says even low levels of lead can be toxic, especially for children under 6, whose brains are still developing. The danger often comes from old lead-based paint that chips or becomes dust during home repairs or normal wear and tear. Once it lands on hands and surfaces, it can easily end up in a child’s mouth.
Dr. Theresa Tran, Director of the Houston Health Department, says the consequences can be lifelong.
“There is no reversal of lead toxicity and the health effects once it happens,” said Dr. Tran. “Because the effects of lead toxicity are permanent and children who are exposed at a younger age will have worse outcomes and health problems that they have to deal with throughout the rest of their lives — we have to prevent those kids from getting exposed.”
Free help for eligible Houston households
To address the problem, the city’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control Program offers services that identify, remove or stabilize lead hazards — at no cost to eligible, lower-income households. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and is a three-year initiative with a goal of helping more than 198 households across Houston.
“We know that there are over 25 thousand homes in the Houston region that still need to be remediated from lead-based paint,” said Dr. Tran.
Houston homeowner Mary McWilliams is among those who have benefited from the program.
“I’m glad that the program exists. I’m happy that people come out and check on the senior citizens and make sure that their houses are taken care of,” McWilliams said.
Tran says cost should not be a barrier for families who need help.
“The beauty of this is that it is at no cost to the homeowner. So affordability is not an issue here with lead remediation,” Tran said.
How to qualify
Applicants must meet income eligibility guidelines. Properties must be current on all property taxes, and applicants must provide proof of ownership.
For rental properties, landlords must obtain a rental agreement that meets fair housing standards and must sign an agreement to rent to families with children under 6 years of age.
The program also partners with the city’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, which provides education and tracks children with elevated blood-lead levels.