Every Child Deserves a Safe Home
Every child deserves a safe and healthy place to grow. But in our communities, many homes were built decades ago and can expose families—especially children—to serious health risks.
-
Lead Poisoning: Lead exposure can cause lasting health problems for young children, including learning difficulties, behavior challenges, and slowed growth. Most homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, and in Biddeford, many rental units are over 50 years old.
-
Other Home Hazards: Mold, radon, pests, and unsafe wiring are also common issues that can put a child’s health and safety at risk.
That’s why we are working with families, landlords, and community partners to:
-
Provide education and resources to reduce hazards and create healthier homes.
-
Build a coalition of local partners committed to promoting safe, affordable, and healthy housing for all.
-
Advocate for equitable solutions so every child has the opportunity to grow up in a healthy home environment.
When to Test for Lead
-
All children in Maine must be tested for lead at age 1 and again at age 2.
-
Children under age 6 should also be tested unless a doctor says they are not at risk.
-
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, talk to your doctor about getting tested for lead—before it can affect you or your baby.
City of Biddeford's Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program
Help for Property Owners
To learn more about how landlords can apply for the City of Biddeford Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction grant, visit their website at www.biddefordmaine.org/leadprogram.
The City of Biddeford’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program is an initiative funded by HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes and is offered by the City of Biddeford in partnership with Community Concepts and the Coastal Healthy Communities Coalition.
Lead Safe Units in Biddeford
Did you know there is a map of lead-safe units in Biddeford? Click on the map below to find all of the apartment units that have been made lead-safe by the City of Biddeford's Safe Homes for Healthy Families program. To learn more about the City’s Program, click here.
Could Your Job or Hobby Be Putting Your Family at Risk for Lead Poisoning?
Even if your home is free from lead hazards, certain jobs and hobbies may still expose your family—especially young children and pregnant women—to dangerous lead dust. Activities like remodeling older buildings, working at firing ranges, soldering pipes, or creating stained glass can all bring lead into your environment without you realizing it. Lead dust can cling to clothing, tools, and even hair or skin, making it easy to unknowingly track it into your car or home. Protecting your loved ones starts with awareness and simple safety steps. Read more to protect your family and prevent lead poisoning—because it’s 100% preventable.