The Central New York region is rich with history, dating back to a population boom during the industrial revolution. But along with that comes an aging housing stock that in many ways provides substandard living conditions for today’s residents.
An elevated blood lead level of over five mcg/dl in children is considered high lead exposure. However, any level of lead present is considered dangerous. According to the Onondaga County Health Department, more than 10 percent of Syracuse children tested in 2019 were shown to have elevated levels.
An elevated blood lead level of over five mcg/dl in children is considered high lead exposure. However, any level of lead present is considered dangerous. According to the Onondaga County Health Department, more than 10 percent of Syracuse children tested in 2019 were shown to have elevated levels.
Lead poisoning rates look even higher when you zoom in to analyze those census tracts that also report high levels of poverty and poor housing conditions. Within tract 23, which is located just north of Interstate 690 between Pearl and Lodi streets, more than 16 percent of children tested were shown to have elevated lead levels in 2018. Large refugee communities live in this neighborhood, which boasts a 24 percent foreign born population.
Census tract 54 is located in the Brighton neighborhood of Syracuse’s Southside and includes the immediate area around the Beauchamp Library. Here, a striking 43 percent of residents live below the poverty line. In this neighborhood, more than 26 percent of children tested had elevated lead levels.
The Community Foundation is initially focusing its LeadSafeCNY efforts within and surrounding these two census tracts. By concentrating our efforts, we can make a greater impact in a shorter period of time where it is needed the most. This will also allow us to more easily measure our progress over time. View our investments.
There is a new energy in Syracuse as passionate and knowledgeable community organizations and public officials are coming together to eradicate childhood lead poisoning. We are excited to be a part of this effort to enact real change for the benefit of our children. We are optimistic about the future as we work together to make the city of Syracuse lead-safe.
Census tract 54 is located in the Brighton neighborhood of Syracuse’s Southside and includes the immediate area around the Beauchamp Library. Here, a striking 43 percent of residents live below the poverty line. In this neighborhood, more than 26 percent of children tested had elevated lead levels.
The Community Foundation is initially focusing its LeadSafeCNY efforts within and surrounding these two census tracts. By concentrating our efforts, we can make a greater impact in a shorter period of time where it is needed the most. This will also allow us to more easily measure our progress over time. View our investments.
There is a new energy in Syracuse as passionate and knowledgeable community organizations and public officials are coming together to eradicate childhood lead poisoning. We are excited to be a part of this effort to enact real change for the benefit of our children. We are optimistic about the future as we work together to make the city of Syracuse lead-safe.
