Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency (MVCAA) is proud to announce the launch of the Leading in Lead Prevention Pilot Program, a groundbreaking initiative funded by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) to protect families and children from the dangers of lead exposure in older rental housing.

The program stems from Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2023 State of the State proposal, which advanced a historic and comprehensive plan to combat lead poisoning across New York State. Through recent amendments to the NYS Public Health Law and a $20 million annual allocation from the 2023-2024 Capital Budget, this initiative targets communities (outside of New York City) where lead hazards are most prevalent.

Locally, MVCAA will administer the program, helping eligible property owners in Rome neighborhoods within zip code 13440 access grants of up to $40,000 per rental unit to address lead-based paint hazards and make homes safer.

“This program is about prevention, safety, and equity,” said Noreen Hartung, MVCAA Housing Director. “No family should have to worry that their home is harming their child. Through this partnership with HCR, we can make critical investments in healthier homes and a safer future for our community.”
Program Highlights:

• Open to owners of residential rental properties with two or more units built before 1980
in zip code 13440.
• Priority given to properties identified through the NYS Department of Health’s Childhood
Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) or CLPPP+ where lead exposure has been
documented.
• Grants may be used for EPA-certified lead remediation work, including abatement of
high-friction surfaces such as windows and doors.
• Awarded property owners must agree to a five-year regulatory period. During this time,
rent may not be increased more than 3% annually for lease renewal or at vacancy.

How to Apply
Interested property owners can apply by calling MVCAA at 315-624-9930 and completing a Central Intake Form. For full program details and statewide eligibility guidelines, visit https://hcr.ny.gov/leading-lead-prevention or contact the Office of Community Renewal at 518-486-3112 or lead@hcr.ny.gov
The Leading in Lead Prevention Pilot Program is funded by New York State Homes and Community Renewal, with the goal of remediating lead hazards and ensuring safe, healthy housing for children and families across the state.