LeadCare Cook County recently reached a major public health milestone with the replacement of its 200th lead service line at a child care facility in suburban Cook County. Administered by Elevate in partnership with Cook County Government and funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, the program is making child care environments safer and healthier for children and the professionals who care for them. Lead exposure poses serious risks to human health, especially for children under age 6, whose developing brains and nervous systems are particularly vulnerable to its harmful effects. By replacing 200 lead service lines since the summer of 2023, LeadCare Cook County has benefitted more than 2,500 children and eased a major financial and health burden for families and child care providers.  The initiative is part of a $15 million investment led by the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development, aimed at driving an equitable pandemic recovery and promoting public and environmental health, especially in historically disadvantaged communities.  LeadCare Cook County will remain open through the summer of 2026.  Child care providers can learn more and apply to the program at leadcarecookcounty.org or by calling 773-389-5657. Assistance is available in both English and Spanish.