WMEAC will serve as fiduciary for EPA CARE grant

The Greater Grand Rapids Environmental Health Initiative (GGRCEHI) was recognized as a national model by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CDC (Center for Disease Control) and was recipient of over $400,000 in funding on November 28, 2007. The funds will be used to reduce children’s toxic health risks their homes. WMEAC will serve as the fiduciary of a two year, $300,000 CARE grant. CARE stands for Community Action for a Renewed Environment. WMEAC will partner with the Healthy Homes Coalition, Asthma Network of Western Michigan, Our Kitchen Table and Sustainable Research Group and Kent County Health Department to implement a community based education and remediation initiative focused on Heavy Metals (lead, mercury), Radon, Carbon Monoxide and Environmental Tobacco Smoke. The Kent County Health Department earned $114,000 from the CDC to staff the management of ther GGRCEHI and to support community work to eliminate toxics in Kent County’s homes. Kent County’s grant is renewable for two additional years; pending successful completion of the collaborative’s first year objectives.