Syracuse families with children poisoned by lead paint now have a place to stay while their home is being abated for the toxin. City and county leaders unveiled a lead-safe house Tuesday on the city’s south side with a capacity of up to four families. Home Headquarters was a key partner of the $500,000 project, which involved the complete renovation of 187-189 Lincoln Ave. Founder and CEO Kerry Quaglia said the units fill a critical gap.
“If they don't have a relative or perhaps a friend where they can move in for a couple of weeks or upwards of a month, they really had no place to go," he said. "So those folks have been going to hotels, which is not ideal for a family living situation.”
Families stay at the lead-safe house at no cost. It’s called “Howard’s House” in honor of SUNY Upstate Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics Dr. Howard Weinberger. He championed routine lead screening for all children ages one and two starting in the early 1970’s, which is required statewide. Now 91, Weinberger said it’s gratifying to reach another milestone.
“It gives me a feeling of security to know that all that work that we did has come out in a positive way," he said. "And I think this is a model for what you've done here in the community. I hope you'll do other models like that. You should see how beautiful the house is. It’s really nice.”
Officials said the house should be fully open within 30 days, and there’s already a waiting list. The county will also offer early intervention services for children exposed to lead. Nearly one in ten kids in Syracuse has elevated blood lead levels.
