Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) has launched a new awareness campaign, “Lead-Safe Cook County,” to encourage eligible suburban Cook County residents and homeowners to apply for free lead removal services and free home repairs.  Lead is a toxic metal that can be hard to see but is very harmful. There is no safe level of lead exposure. Even small amounts can cause harm over time. Each year, about 200 children in suburban Cook County test positive for elevated blood lead levels, which can cause lasting problems with growth, learning and behavior. During pregnancy, lead exposure can also pass to the baby and affect development before birth. The program is open to both homeowners and tenants. To qualify, homes must have been built before 1978; and families must meet income requirements (earn less than 120% of Area Median Income (AMI) and have a child under the age of 6 that lives in or frequently visits the home.  Residents can learn more and apply at www.Lead-SafeCookCounty.com