Bright Future Begin Lead-Free

The LeadSafeCNY Coalition is a community-led effort to build healthier, lead-free homes and neighborhoods across Central New York.


 Who We Are?

 The LeadSafeCNY Coalition brings together families, community leaders, and organizations to eliminate lead poisoning and environmental health hazards in Central New York. Together, we focus on four core areas:

  • Housing: Safe, healthy homes for every family.

  • Health: Access to testing, treatment, and prevention.

  • Education: Empowering parents and communities with knowledge.

  • Workforce: Building skills and training for a lead-free future.

Our Staff

🌱 Lead-Safe Outdoor Play & Gardening

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, but did you know that soil can be a source of lead exposure, especially around older homes?

According to the CDC, lead can remain in soil for many years from deteriorating exterior lead-based paint, past use of leaded gasoline, and certain industrial sources. Children can be exposed by putting dirty hands in their mouths, playing in bare soil, or tracking contaminated soil into the home on shoes and clothing.  

Help keep your family Lead-Safe this summer:
🌿 Cover bare soil with grass, mulch, or wood chips.
👟 Remove shoes before entering your home.
🧼 Wash children’s hands and outdoor toys after playing outside.
🪴 Consider raised beds or container gardens if you’re unsure about your soil.
🥕 Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.

A few simple habits can help reduce lead exposure while your family enjoys gardening and outdoor play.

For more information:

🌱 New York State Department of Health – Healthy Gardening:  NYS Department of Health: Healthy Gardening & Soil Safety⁠

https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/

Learn more about lead prevention, healthy homes, and community resources by connecting with LeadSafe CNY Coalition.

Follow us:

Facebook @ profile.php?id=61575265299052

Instagram @ leadsafecnycoalition

Linkedin @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadsafecny-coalition-3255b8393/

Coalition in Action

 Our coalition works through committees focused on Housing, Health, Education, and Workforce Development, bringing together experts, advocates, and families to create real solutions.

  • Steering Committee (Governance Body)

  • Data Committee

  • Education, Engagement & Testing Committee

  • Training & Support Committee

Family Voices Advisory Council ensures that the lived experiences of parents and caregivers are at the heart of every decision we make.


 Resources for Families

👋 Hi, my name is Lani, the Lead Awareness Llama!


I’m here to help caregivers and families find the resources you need. Whether you’re seeking support, housing help, or just someone to talk to, you’re in the right place.

LeadSafe Advisory Council – Chair April Garcia
If you are a lead-affected family looking for support or want to share your experience, email: familyvoices@gmail.com

🏛️ Local Programs & Services

🏠 Housing & Emergency Support

🌎 Statewide Resources

Building Healthier, Lead-Free Futures

LeadSafe CNY Coalition works across housing, health, education, and workforce development to prevent lead poisoning and protect children and families. Through cross-sector partnerships and community-driven strategies, the Coalition advances long-term solutions that strengthen neighborhoods and improve outcomes across Central New York.

  • Safe, healthy homes for every family

  • Access to testing, treatment, and prevention.

  • Empowering parents and communities with knowledge.

  • Building skills and training for a lead-free future.

Did You Know?

Did You Know?

Lead exposure often has no symptoms, but testing can protect your child.

Don’t forget to ask your doctor:

Has my child been tested for lead? When should my child be tested? What are our next steps?

❊ Get Involved ❊

 Be Part of the Solution

 We believe lasting change happens when communities work together. Here’s how you can get involved:

Confirm Volunteer CNY

  • Want to get involved or share your ideas? Reach out to our director at ljones@unitedway-cny.org

    We’d love to connect!

  • Students can contact our director, LaToya Jones, MPH 

    Email: ljones@unitedway-cny.org