Healthy Neighborhoods Program



A New York State grant-funded program provided by the Niagara County Department of Health
Environmental Division.
Healthy Neighborhoods Brochure

The Healthy Neighborhoods Program conducts home visits to assess health and safety concerns. The program is designed to improve quality of life by addressing environmental health and safety conditions in the residence. The program and products provided are free to both homeowners and tenants in Niagara County.

Public Health Technicians visit homes by canvassing (going door-to-door) in the priority neighborhoods, block by block, and speaking to the residents of each dwelling. During the home visit a checklist is reviewed with residents to identify and address health and safety risks. Free products and services may be provided.

Appointments may be made by calling (716)439-7479 or click on the following link:  https://niagaracounty.gov/requestHNPvisit

Community Education

Healthy Neighborhoods Program team members are available for Health Fairs & educational presentations in the community including schools, various groups and organizations across Niagara County. Call (716) 439-7479 for more information about availability. 

Home visits assess the following areas:

Fire and Burn Prevention

  • Smoke detectors can be provided, or batteries can be replaced as needed.
  • Fire exit drills are reviewed with residents.
  • Electrical hazards, such as excessive use of extension cords, can be addressed as needed.
  • Referrals can be made to correct hazardous items if needed.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention

  • Carbon monoxide levels can be checked in the home.
  • Hazards such as faulty vent pipes can be identified.
  • Carbon monoxide detectors are provided to eligible individuals or families.
  • The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are reviewed with occupants.

Radon

  • Test kits are provided for homes with concerns
  • Education is provided to residents


Lead Poisoning Prevention

  •  Potential sources of lead poisoning including peeling, cracked or chipped paint are reviewed with residents.
  • Suggestions can be provided to help eliminate sources of lead poisoning.
  • Referrals can be made to programs offering free assistance to make homes lead safe.
  • Free cleaning supplies can be provided to residents with young children to reduce their exposure to lead dust.
  • The importance of testing for blood lead levels is reviewed with parents.
  • Referrals will be made for testing when appropriate.

Asthma

  • Environmental triggers are identified in the home and suggestions to reduce or eliminate them can be provided.
  • Information about mold sampling and testing can be provided.
  • Asthma management plans can be discussed and samples can be provided.
  • Referrals to various asthma support organizations and providers can be provided.
  • Dust mite proof pillow covers can be provided.
  • Asthma prevention literature will be provided as needed.

Health Insurance & Physicians

  •  Referrals can be made and information can be provided for those without health insurance. 
  •  Referrals can be made to physicians at clinics and/or hospitals throughout Niagara County.

Rabies Prevention

  • Information relating to free rabies vaccine clinics for domestic pets will be provided.

Other Services

  • Packets of useful information are provided at each home visited.
  • Referrals can be made for housing deficiencies, WIC, food stamps, legal aid, diabetes education, immunization and STD clinics, senior services, mental health, domestic violence, employment and training, and other services are provided as needed.

NOTE: THE HEALTHY NEIGHBORHOODS PROGRAM IS NOT AN ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.  THE PROGRAM SOLELY EXISTS TO PROVIDE HEALTH AND SAFETY PRODUCTS (FREE!) AND INFORMATION TO THE RESIDENTS.  THERE ARE ABSOLUTELY NO FINES INVOLVED IN ANY OF OUR VISITS.