Michigan Department of Health offering blood lead testing, food assistance to City of Benton Harbor residents

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is offering additional free resources for City of Benton Harbor residents, including food assistance and blood lead testing.

These resources are being offered in addition to free bottled water being made available to residents.

Food assistance

Benton Harbor families in need of support may be eligible to receive food assistance and other state assistance program benefits like healthcare coverage, utility relief, childcare, and cash assistance.

Call 211 for more information or apply for benefits and find local resources here.

Blood Lead Testing

The health department reports that there is no safe level of lead in the blood, and the health department is offering blood testing for children.

By taking this test, your child may be eligible for nursing case management services.

Blood lead testing is available for children who are:

• Current patients at InterCare Family Health Network, 800 M-139, Benton Harbor, 855-869-6900.
• Enrolled WIC participants at the Berrien County Health Department, 2149 E. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, 800-815-5485. Visit BCHDMI.org for more information.

Lead Safe Home Program

Benton Harbor residents may be eligible for services to locate and remove lead hazards from their homes, including lead-based paint.

Residents may be eligible for the following free or low-cost lead services:

• A home lead inspection
• Testing for lead in drinking water
• Fixing lead hazards

Contact MDHHS at 866-691-5323 to learn more.

Additional dates and locations for bottled water pick-up can be found here.