NHC member Green and Health Homes Initiative was recently recognized as a national model for asthma care by the Environmental Protection Agency. GHHI was presented with the National Environmental Leadership Award in Asthma Management, recognizing its work to improve the lives of people with asthma in underserved communities.
In Baltimore City, the rates of residents diagnosed with asthma are higher than average, as lower-income communities tend to have a higher percentage of home in deteriorating condition. The Baltimore division of GHHI serves low-income families using asthma management models that combine in-home asthma education with remediation. It also assesses homes for common environmental hazards like vermin, lead paint, dust and mold.
“We are honored by the EPA’s recognition of our work and will continue adapting to serve families in Baltimore and across the country,” GHHI President & CEO Ruth Ann Nortonsaid in a press release. “Strong collaboration is key to our program’s success in Baltimore [and] GHHI emphasizes collaboration across the public, private and philanthropic sectors to have real and lasting health impacts, as well as improve school and work attendance and reduce monthly energy bills.”
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The ceremony took place on May 7 at the Newseum in Washington, DC.