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Syracuse officials have opened a new lead-safe residence for families whose children have tested positive for lead poisoning, offering a temporary alternative to hotels while their homes undergo repairs. The four-unit building, named “Howard’s House” in honor of retired pediatrician Dr. Howard Weinberger, is located on Lincoln Avenue and is expected to welcome its first family within the next month.
The $500,000 renovation project was a joint effort by the city of Syracuse and Onondaga County, each contributing $250,000 toward transforming the century-old property into a safe haven for families in crisis. The nonprofit Home HeadQuarters will manage the facility, which is designed to function like an Airbnb, providing comfort and stability during what can be a stressful transition period. Mayor Sharon Owens said, “I wish the best for every family that is going to step into this property in their transition, so that their transition is less traumatic. And it is an absolutely beautiful place for them to be temporarily,” as reported by CNY Central.
Each year, about 500 Syracuse children are found to have elevated lead levels, mostly due to peeling and chipping paint in older homes. According to Kerry Quaglia, founder of Home HeadQuarters, roughly 10% of tested city children have blood lead levels above the current threshold for concern. The high cost of removing lead from aging buildings—including replacing doors, windows, and pipes—remains a significant challenge. County Executive Ryan McMahon emphasized that the new residence addresses a critical need: “What do you do with the family?” he said, noting that hotel stays were the only option until now. These stays at “Howard’s House” are expected to last from two weeks to a month before families return home, even if renovations are not fully complete, as detailed by Syracuse.com.
The city and county view the Lincoln Avenue residence as a pilot program, with plans to consider similar homes throughout Syracuse. Officials hope this approach reduces the trauma for families and helps address the ongoing public health challenge posed by lead exposure in older housing.
For more on local public health efforts and eligibility for similar services, visit the Onondaga County Health Department. Community members seeking additional support can also call the free 211 hotline for local resources.