West Cook News

The LeadCare Cook County program has reached a significant milestone by completing its 100th lead service line replacement. This initiative is part of an effort to provide safer drinking water for children in suburban Cook County. The program offers free lead service line replacements at child care facilities, focusing on reducing lead exposure for young children, who are particularly vulnerable to its harmful effects.

"The 100th lead service line replacement is more than just a milestone—it's a testament to Cook County’s commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our children,” stated Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. She emphasized the importance of providing clean and safe drinking water for all children, especially those in historically underserved communities. The program has already benefited 926 children and aims to replace over 460 lead service lines in total.

In an effort to reach more families, the county is expanding eligibility for the program. Now, even child care providers exempt from licensure and caring for up to three children can participate. Bethany Olson, Program Manager of LeadCare Cook County, expressed enthusiasm about this expansion: "We are thrilled to expand the reach of LeadCare Cook County to provide even more children with safer drinking water through the support of their trusted child care providers.”

LeadCare Cook County forms part of a larger $15 million investment in lead service line replacement initiatives led by the Bureau of Economic Development. This initiative prioritizes underserved communities including Black, Latine, and low-income areas, aiming for equitable recovery from the pandemic while improving public health.

The program operates in partnership with Elevate, a nonprofit organization experienced in serving child care providers across Illinois. More information about enrollment is available at www.LeadCareCookCounty.org or by calling 773-389-5657.