Heat Map: A Glimpse at our Neighborhood Investments (updated June 2025)

​Since 2018, the Central New York Community Foundation has so far invested more than $2.9 million to help put an end to childhood lead poisoning in Syracuse. We recently released a map that showcases the investments made so far.

Strategy 1: Housing Construction, Renovations & Repairs
Amount Invested to Date: $1,255,122
The likelihood of lead paint exposure increases in rental properties and two family homes that haven’t been updated and/or routinely maintained, putting families living in these homes at risk. We are collaborating with organizations to provide home renovations and/or new construction in the census tracts that have the highest level of lead poisoning.
Outcomes to Date:

• 2,190 Windows Replaced
• 210 Doors Replaced
• 253 Safe, Affordable Rental Units Constructed or Renovated

Strategy 2: Education & Awareness
Amount Invested to Date: $450,778
Lead poisoning can go undetected and symptoms of elevated blood lead levels can mimic other less serious concerns, resulting in continued exposure and increase of health related issues. This is why we are partnering with organizations to get the word out about how to protect CNY residents from the dangers of lead paint exposure.
Outcomes to Date:

• Thousands of Residents Informed on Lead Poisoning 

Strategy 3: Workforce Development & Landlord education
Amount Invested to Date: $347,050
It is imperative that the workforce and property owners are educated and knowledgeable in all aspects of the presence and appropriate removal of lead paint. In order to deliver the necessary tools to the CNY workforce, we are giving resources to organizations that provide training and materials to these professionals. 
Outcomes to Date:

• 315 Individuals Trained on Proper Lead Paint Removal

Strategy 4: Health, Safety and Other
Amount Invested to date: $206,840
We are assisting local agencies in helping residents get tested and in  safe homes.

Strategy 5: Public Policy & Legislation
Amount Invested to Date: $125,000
We are advocating for effective lead violation and housing code enforcement; conducting research that supports meaningful legislation.
Outcomes to Date:

• Member of statewide aligned fund to create Lead Free NY Campaign
• Developed policy paper 
• Advocated for the passage of a new lead ordinance, which would make the presence of lead a housing code violation

Strategy 6: $500,000 Loan Loss Reserve (enacted Dec 2019)
Helped Home HeadQuarters provide first mortgages to buyers of new, lead-free homes in the City of Syracuse. 
Outcomes to Date:

• 44 Homebuyer Loans Guaranteed

leadsafecny_investment_map.pdf
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