When applying for funds for our Healthy Homes Asthma Program (HHAP), WHE recognized the need to build the capacity of Allegheny County’s residential renovation workforce. With the announcement of the Whole Home Repairs Program (WHRP), Pennsylvania also recognized that developing the workforce was critical to completing the residential renovation the program called for.
To help support contractors performing these projects, investing in workforce development includes:
• Administrative support and capacity building for small businesses.
• Helping new workers enter the residential construction field.
• Training programs to build the skills of workers.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded Women for a Healthy Environment (WHE) $1.8 million to identify 130 households to deliver interventions proven to improve the health outcomes of children residing in the home with an asthma diagnosis. The interventions taken will address environmental concerns in the home, including eliminating moisture sources, remediating mold, installing radon mitigation systems, improving ventilation, managing pests, and controlling lead hazards.
The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development has allotted $12.9 million for the Allegheny County Whole-Home Repairs Program (WHRP). Action Housing, Inc. will be implementing WHRP for Allegheny County. The program will provide funding to address habitability and safety concerns, provide measures to improve energy or water efficiency, and make units accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Contact Women for a Healthy Environment with any questions, comments, or concerns. We will do our best to get back to you promptly. Thank you for your interest in our network!