City of Memphis, TN

10/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/16/2024 13:56

Orange Mound hosts activities to celebrate National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

Orange Mound hosts activities to celebrate National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

The City of Memphis and Shelby County Lead Programs are proud to celebrate National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) from October 20 to October 26 in the Orange Mound community. This week will feature several events designed to educate the community about lead safety and the associated risks of lead exposure, particularly for children. Throughout the week, we will provide valuable resources on getting homes tested for lead and ensuring children are screened as well.

NLPPW emphasizes the critical importance of equipping parents, caregivers, and guardians with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent and mitigate the dangers of lead exposure in children. This year's theme, "Lead-Free Kids for a Greater Memphis," reflects our city's commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our youth, ensuring they are not impacted by environmental hazards that could compromise their quality of life.

Upcoming Workshops for National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

Join us for a series of informative workshops during National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week at the Orange Mound Library, located at 843 Dallas Street, Memphis, TN 38114. Here's the schedule:

  • Monday, October 21, 1 PM - 3 PM:The Tennessee Department of Environment Conservation (TDEC) will present an informational workshop for new and existing contractors interested in learning about state regulations and industry standards for lead paint and becoming a certified contractor.
  • Tuesday, October 22, 10 AM - 12 PM:The Shelby County Health Department will provide information on how parents and guardians can get their children tested for lead, along with methods for environmental cleaning.
  • Wednesday, October 23, 1 PM - 3 PM: This workshop will feature the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Moore Tech, and Housing and Community Development's Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) discussing additional training opportunities for contractors.
  • Thursday, October 24, 1 PM - 3 PM:Join the Memphis Shelby County Lead Safe Collaborative and Memphis FilmWorks, Inc. for a presentation of the movie Lead Watch 901.
  • Friday, October 25, 10 AM - 12 PM:The University of Memphis, School of Public Health will share insights regarding research on measuring and evaluating indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in homes.

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week will wrap up with an informative and fun event, "Boo! Does Lead Scare You?" on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the Orange Mound Community Center, located at 2572 Park Avenue, Memphis, TN 38114. The event will run from 10 AM to 2 PM. The objective of this event is to educate the citizens of Memphis about the potential harms of lead exposure, particularly its effects on children. Attendees will learn about safety measures and prevention tactics to help reduce the risk of lead exposure.

Join us for a day filled with music, games, food, and a costume contest! Let's have fun while working together toward a healthier, safer Memphis.

All events are free and open to the public. We look forward to seeing you there!