Open Buffalo bringing awareness to East Side residents

“Lead exposure is very dangerous, especially for children, and can cause significant lifelong problems with mental and physical health and learning. In addition to exposure from lead paint, contaminated soil can also pose a serious risk. This summer, Open Buffalo, with help from Citizen Science Community Resources and the University at Buffalo’s Department of Environment and Sustainability, collected soil samples from nearly 140 properties on the East Side to test for lead.

The results were alarming. The average amount of lead in the properties tested was nearly three times higher than what the Environmental Protection Agency considers safe for everyday use, such as growing a vegetable garden or letting children play in the dirt.

This project was part of Open Buffalo’s work to increase awareness of the potential risks faced by East Side families due to environmental contamination. Their goal is to work with residents to strategize and advocate for ways to reduce exposure and create a safe and healthy environment where everyone can thrive.

Open Buffalo is hosting a community meeting at the Delavan Grider Community Center on Monday, Dec. 8, from 6pm-8pm to present the results of the project and help facilitate an important solution oriented conversation. The event is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served.”