Un|Leaded

(Source: MKE Nutrition & Lead Task Force, 2019)

Residential exposure to lead is a critical environmental problem in aging cities throughout the United States, including cities in southeastern Wisconsin.  In the summer of 2018, the Interfaith Earth Network (IEN) collaborated with Hephatha Lutheran Church, Sixteenth Street Community Health Centers, Social Development Commission, and the Dominican Center to host its first education event for families at high risk of lead exposure.  Participants were taught the negative health effects of lead (especially for children as they develop mentally and physically), ways to reduce exposure (through paint, water, and soil), and the importance of proper nutrition.

From this initial event, IEN has played a vital role in the formation and continued work of the Coalition On Lead Emergency (COLE) comprised of more than 15 community organizations.  Together, IEN and COLE are working with congregations from the Strong Baby Sanctuary/Blanket of Love Program to train facilitators for hosting lead education events in their own congregations throughout the city of Milwaukee. (Those who have completed the Training of Trainers program can access the "Outreach Reporting" form and additional resources HERE.)

 

Local Resources

"'Well Fed Means Less Lead' Campaign Summary" (2019) - MKE Nutrition & Lead Task Force

Get Well Fed - MKE Nutrition & Lead Task Force

The Lead Hazard Reduction Program - City of Milwaukee Home Environmental Health Division

Program to Replace Lead Service Lines - Milwaukee Water Works

 

State Resources

Lead-Safe Wisconsin - Wisconsin Department of Health Services

 

National Resources

Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention - Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

"Supporting Healthy Houses of Worship: Effective, Affordable Measures to Protect the Health of Congregations and Staff" (Oct 2019) - US Environmental Protection Agency

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Lead (FAQ)