Success Stories


Rural Polk County

Paul* and Debbie* (not their real names) live in rural Polk County, and came to the program through Polk County Weatherization in early June 2009. They have six children, three under six years, and the youngest less than a month old at the time they enrolled. An inspection identified several health and lead hazards. By combining resources from several grants and departments in Polk County, the home was transformed into a safe, energy-efficient, family environment. The Metropolitan Partnership for Lead Safe Housing was able to provide new siding, roofing, windows, floor coverings, and the removal of several outbuildings, all lead-based paint hazards. In a letter written by Debbie, she stated, “We want to thank everyone that has been involved for these gifts that we have received, and to acknowledge the tremendous difference that you are making in me and my family’s life.”

From A Program Client

"My home was built in 1919 so I assumed that there was lead paint somewhere within the house. I then saw an advertisement in a newspaper that said Polk County could help remove lead-based paint if you were income eligible. So I thought, why not call and see? Through the program with Polk County, I was able to get the lead base paint covered/removed. Now that my children are older, I feel safer knowing I don’t have to worry about lead base paint harming them. Thank you so much for everything you and your staff have done. You have all been great."