Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle joined the County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability (DES), Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) and nonprofit Elevate today to announce the launch of Healthy Homes for Healthy Families, a $30 million program that provides free whole-home upgrades to suburban Cook County families. The Healthy Homes for Healthy Families program aims to complete upgrades to up to 200 homes each year over the next three years.  [Cook County]

“I am excited to announce this innovative, whole home approach to improving resident well-being while increasing energy efficiency and reducing the cost burden of utilities for families in suburban Cook County,” said President Preckwinkle. “This program offers lead abatement, water conservation and deep energy retrofits to provide the maximum benefit for residents with the lowest disruption to their daily lives. Not only do the homeowners and renters in the program benefit, but all of Cook County will through the decrease in greenhouse gas emissions as a result of energy efficiency upgrades and electrification in the units.”

Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Healthy Homes for Healthy Families addresses home health hazards that can have adverse effects on residents of all ages but can be especially dangerous for infants and children. The program addresses lead, radon, mold and other home health hazards that can help keep families safe and healthy. Residents may be eligible to receive upgrades such as lead abatement, structural repairs, water conservation upgrades, weatherization and installation of high-efficiency appliances. All upgrades are performed by licensed contractors. 

“Home health hazards, such as lead, can cause children to experience learning disabilities and developmental delays; and mold can trigger coughing, wheezing and asthma,” said Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck, chief operating officer of CCHDP. “Healthy Homes for Healthy Families is an essential step toward ensuring that the homes of our residents are as healthy as possible.”

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