Health issues are also critical to school readiness. Although children also have access to a State-subsidized program, very few parents have access to employment that provides health care.  25% of respondents in the Making Connections Neighborhood Survey report that they or their partner receive health benefits for their family from their employer.

Lead poisoning is the most serious health issue facing central city Milwaukee children. Older homes located within Making Connections often have maintenance issues, which substantially increases the risk of lead poisoning.  27.6% of children age 0-5 who are tested for lead poisoning test 10ug/ml or above compared to 11.3% for children in that age category the city as a whole. The incidence of lead poisoning has declined dramatically, however.  In 1995, 46.9% of children in Making Connections who were tested, tested high − nearly 20% higher than in 2005.

Impact of Lead Poisoning on Son Spurs Making Connections Mother to Action

Her son Tommie’s hyperactivity lead Nakisha Kirkendoll to take him to the doctor. Tests revealed he had lead poisoning, a condition that erodes children’s ability to concentrate, read, and think abstractly—exactly the abilities vital for success in school and on the job.

Armed with the diagnosis, Ms. Kirkendoll sprung into action. She removed old paint from her home, and she changed her son’s diet. Within two years his lead levels had dropped by over fifty percent.

After attending the six-month leadership training course on weekends, Ms. Kirdendoll and two friends received a mini-grant to organize a Family Unity Day that attracted 600 people.  In addition to fun activities for adults and children, the Unity Day included information booths about health (including lead poisoning), finances, education and other services.