Recently, Defend Our Health hosted a community meeting in Lewiston to raise awareness around common health issues that are prevalent in older rental housing such as lead, mold, carbon monoxide, and radon. These health issues impact New Mainers unequally, with the impact falling mostly on tenants of color. This meeting was organized in partnership with…

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Last month, Defend’s organizer, Sergio Cahueque, joined the Community Conservation Initiative leaders for their #TheCCINeighnorhoodCleanUpProgram in Deer Oaks Park. This community clean-up is part of an ongoing effort to take care of the environment, and we are grateful for the invitation to talk to impacted communities about our Healthy Housing program. The Community Conservation Initiative…

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Living in an older rental property is a significant risk factor for several health conditions. In Southern Maine, the housing market is incredibly tight, which forces people to take any available affordable unit, regardless of the condition or quality.  Lead based paint, asthma triggers, and carbon monoxide risks are some of the prevalent health issues…

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