St. Louis County program helps revitalize homes, improve safety for St. Louis County families
JENNINGS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - A St. Louis County program is helping families stay in their homes by making critical repairs and safety upgrades.
The Healthy Homes Program, funded through a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is providing thousands of dollars in assistance to residents facing hazardous living conditions.
“This is a blessing,” Jennings resident Mia Turner said. “I know how important it is to have a healthy home.”
Turner, a North County mother and nursing home nurse, received over $11,000 in repairs to her home. For years, she dealt with severe water damage, a pest infestation and security concerns - a stray bullet shattered her bedroom window last year.
Through the program, Turner’s home underwent a full bathroom renovation, including fixing the floor, vanity and shower. A damaged kitchen floor was repaired to eliminate tripping hazards. Her front walkway and stairs, which had become safety concerns, were replaced with new handrails.
Her basement, once vulnerable to pests, was sealed off, and an unused garage door was removed and replaced with a steel entry door.
Security upgrades included new block windows in the basement and outdoor lighting.
Dr. Kanika Cunningham with the St. Louis County Health Department says programs like Healthy Homes show the work the County Health Department does to address community health.
“People don’t tend to think the health department can make your home safer and healthier,” she said. “It’s not always known that what’s happening in your home is making you sick.”
St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page says these investments help keep families in their communities.
“We know that being healthy isn’t just about a medical card or seeing a doctor,” Page said.
“We’re going to keep you here for a long time,” Page told Turner.
So far, Healthy Homes has helped nearly 40 families, with 20 more homes set for upgrades. The program is funded by a federal grant received in partnership with Children’s Hospital in Kansas City.
For Turner, the changes bring not just comfort but peace of mind.
“This is a lot safer,” Turner said. “My basement is a lot warmer, my house is healthier, and I feel so much better.”
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