Madison County receives $2 million grant for healthy housing program

WAMPSVILLE — Madison County Public Health (MCPH) has received a $2 million grant from the Healthy Homes Production Grant Program of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help mitigate housing-related hazards that can contribute to childhood diseases and injuries in low-income households across the county. “This grant will make it possible to improve local housing conditions which are directly linked to poor health,” Madison County Public Health Director Eric Faisst said in a press release announced the grant. “We will work together with community partners to create a healthier future for Madison County, one home at a time.” MCPH will partner with Community Action Partnership for Madison County (CAP) to run the program, integrating internal resources from MCPH’s Healthy Homes, Childhood Lead Poison Prevention, and other public-health programs. “As partners in community wellbeing, Community Action Partnership for Madison County is honored to join forces with Madison County Public Health Department in the pursuit of healthier homes and brighter futures for our residents,” CAP Executive Director Elizabeth Crofut said. “With the support of the Healthy Homes Production Grant Program, we embark on a transformative journey to mitigate housing-related hazards and safeguard the health of our children. Together, we strive to build resilient communities where every family can thrive in a safe and healthy environment.” The multi-year funding will help MCPH build upon and expand its Healthy Homes Program by assisting qualifying residents in improving their living conditions and pursuing eligible repairs for health concerns ranging from indoor air quality to housing safety. MCPH is still finalizing program details and will announce more information, including eligibility, soon.