Renters at risk of lead poisoning, links between housing and public health, and more
The story was originally published in The Public's Radio with support from our 2023 National Fellowship.
Marisa and her two kids sit by her bedroom window on October 18th, 2023. Two months prior, she learned her two-year-old had elevated levels of lead in her blood. She is still waiting for the landlord to make repairs.
Jodi Hilton for The Public's Radio
For most rental housing, Rhode Island law requires landlords to regularly inspect units and obtain “lead certificates” showing they’re safe from immediate lead hazards like peeling or pulverized paint. But this week, an investigation by The Public’s Radio revealed that landlords rarely face consequences for failing to obtain the certificates. We talk with the reporter behind the investigation, Nina Sparling. And Providence has a new Office of Housing and Human Services. We talk with director Emily Freedman about how the office will guide the city’s strategy around affordable housing and public health. Plus: Political Reporter Ian Donnis on the week in politics; Ukrainian pastor Boris Kroner reflects on the war in Ukraine, two years in; T.F. Green features local artists; and a few tips on what to do this week.
Links:
- Renters at Risk
- Ian Donnis’ Rhode Island politics roundup for Feb. 16, 2024
- Rhode Island Ukrainian pastor describes ‘fear and uncertainty’ among local Ukrainians as war drags on
- Art gallery at T.F. Green gives visitors a first impression of the local culture
- ‘Sustaining Sea Scallops’ documentary screening in New Bedford (Feb. 16)
- Lunar New Year traditional lion dance performance in Cranston (Feb. 17)
- Dumpling making at the Olneyville Community Library (Feb. 21)
- Providence Children’s Film Festival (Feb. 16-25)
Guests:
- Nina Sparling, The Public’s Radio Reporter
- Emily Freedman, Director of the Providence Housing and Human Services Office
- Ian Donnis, The Public’s Radio Political Reporter
- Father Borislav Kroner, pastor at St. Michael’s Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Woonsocket
The Weekly Catch is a production of The Public’s Radio, hosted this week by James Baumgartner, filling in for Luis Hernandez. Our editor is Mareva Lindo. Thanks to Maddie Mott for our podcast artwork. The executive producer of The Weekly Catch is Sally Eisele, and our CEO and General Manager is Torey Malatia.