FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dolores Parker
Email: dolores@WomenForaHealthyEnvironment.org
Phone: 941-735-2547
WHE Receives 2024 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award
Pittsburgh, PA (April 17, 2024) – Women for a Healthy Environment (WHE) was honored this week by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) with a 2024 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award. The award recognizes outstanding environmental projects throughout the Commonwealth.
WHE received the award for its impactful Healthy Homes Asthma Program, which aims to improve the lives of children with asthma and their families.
The Healthy Homes Asthma Program focuses on reducing environmental hazards in homes that lead to poor indoor air quality and may contribute to asthma symptoms Through collaboration with Pennsylvania’s Whole Home Repair program, Allegheny Lead Safe Homes, and funding from a Housing and Urban Development Healthy Homes Production Grant, WHE has been able to:
- Repair homes for families with asthmatic children
- Conduct thorough testing and mitigation for lead and radon
- Create healthier living environments that contribute to improved respiratory health
- Provide education and training opportunities for families and workers to prevent exposure to environmental hazards
“The DEP’s recognition of the Healthy Homes Asthma Program is a significant honor,” said Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis, WHE Executive Director. “This program not only promotes environmental health but also fosters economic growth through workforce development in the home repair sector. Investing in healthy homes translates to healthier children, families, and communities.”
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About WHE:
WHE is a non-profit organization that empowers underserved communities to build resilience, promote equity, and safeguard children from environmental health hazards. We collaborate with families, schools, and early learning centers to create healthy environments where children can flourish. Guided by science, we advocate for policies and programs that foster equitable lives free from environmental harms.
