With the phrase “spring cleaning” looming about, it’s hard not to take stock of our homes. And as that mental “to do” gets too big for comfort- Cook County’s Healthy Homes Initiative is here to help. This local program assists residents in various projects that make homes safer and healthier. From simple safety upgrades to larger improvements, the initiative offers practical support in ways many people don’t realize.  

Maybe your spring to do list contains basic home maintenance tasks, such as cleaning gutters, checking for roof leaks, replacing furnace filters, testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, clearing debris from around the home, and managing moisture in basements or crawl spaces. Your home may also show signs of worn weatherstripping, drafty windows that need recaulking and resealing, limited lighting in kitchen areas or closets, or front steps that would be safer with a sturdy handrail installed. For many, it is also time to clear yards and begin thinking about the upcoming wildfire season.

While routine, these tasks require climbing, lifting, bending, and sustained effort. For older adults or those with limited mobility or energy, even small repairs can be difficult to manage. When left unaddressed, these everyday issues can quietly increase safety risks, affect comfort, independence, and overall well-being.

The Healthy Homes initiative at Cook County Public Health was created to respond to these everyday realities. Many homes in our county are older, and with approximately 30% of adults over 65 and no assisted living facilities available locally, safe, functional housing is essential to maintaining independence and quality of life.

The Cook County Healthy Homes program has already helped residents through practical, low-cost improvements that make homes safer and healthier. As part of the program, services include a free in-home assessment, education to support improvements, and connections to local resources to make improvements happen. This can include providing items such as HEPA vacuums, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, dehumidifiers, and non-toxic cleaning supplies, as well as supporting small repairs, such as grab bars, ventilation improvements, and minor plumbing or moisture-related fixes. In some cases, when specific health or safety needs are identified and approved, additional support, such as air purifiers, carpet removal, dumpsters, or water filter replacements, can be provided.

Depending on eligibility, many households can receive mini-grants of up to $750 to help implement these changes. The program is designed to be accessible, with broad eligibility that prioritizes older adults, families with children, and households participating in or eligible for programs such as the Oral Health Task Force, Medical Assistance (MA), and other income-based supports.

Changes are often simple but make a real difference!!

The program will be ending soon, with only a limited time remaining to take advantage of these services. Now is the best time to schedule your free home assessment and take care of the improvements your home needs. Funding is available till June 1. If you have concerns about your home's safety, now is a good time to look into your options while help is still available.

Anyone can request a free Healthy Homes assessment or ask for advice and referrals. Just contact Healthy Housing at [email protected] or call Cook County Public Health at 218-387-3605. 

Small changes can make a big difference in how your home feels, works, and supports your daily life.