As lead exposure continues to threaten families across Monroe County, the need for action is urgent. With 68% of homes built before 1978, lead-based paint remains a hidden danger. In 2024, 299 children in our community were diagnosed with elevated blood lead levels. Too many families are unaware this risk still exists, and prevention materials are often inaccessible to those who need them most. 

We have expanded our lead poisoning prevention efforts across Monroe County by creating short demonstration videos, multilingual educational materials, and wide-reaching public awareness campaigns, including community events, billboards, bus ads, and social media. We did all of this while also distributing lead-safe cleaning kits directly to families and educating local and state policymakers about lead risk in this county.

We are proud to have achieved this impact through partnerships with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the City of Rochester’s Lead Program, and the Finger Lakes Children’s Environmental Health Center, powered by a dedicated staff of just 1.5 people and our Executive Committee.

As we close the year, your generous support makes it possible to sustain vital outreach and lead poisoning prevention education efforts to families to keep their children safe and reduce lifelong harm. Every gift, no matter the size, will help families across our community. Together, we can create healthy spaces and lead-safe futures for all. 

On behalf of the Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning, I am so grateful for your support. Wishing you and your families a very Happy New Year.

With gratitude, 

Clare Robinson- Henrie

Program Director