Environmental Sampling as an Advocacy Tool

The Alliance for Healthy Homes is launching a new project, the Community Environmental Health Resource Center (CEHRC), in collaboration with local groups working to protect children at highest risk. CEHRC (pronounced "search") would develop and promote environmental sampling as a tool to help local groups ensure that environmental threats to public health are identified and control. CEHRC will focus primarily on environmental threats in substandard housing such as lead and mold. It is built around the concept that quantitative assessments of environmental threats is a powerful tool to mobilize education and advocacy.

IKE’s Tom Neltner has been involved in two meetings to help design and launch CEHRC. At the latest session in Birmingham, Alabama, Tom taught a lead sampling technician class for grassroots leaders from across the country.

IKE is a finalist for a grant from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust to undertake sampling for environmental health hazards in Marion County. The project will translate CEHRC into local action. IKE is pleased to have the support of the Alliance, Concerned Clergy, Marion County Health Department, and Congresswoman Julia Carson.