Compassion, Commitment, Community:
Alameda County's
Healthy Homes Department
Established in 1991 as a childhood lead poisoning prevention program, the Alameda Healthy Homes Department has also been proactive in seeking sources of funding to address other housing-focused residential health hazards. The Department receives funding directly for minor home repair grants in the Urban County, which includes the cities of Albany, Dublin, Emeryville, Newark and the unincorporated areas of the County. The Department has also established a contractual relationship with the cities of Oakland and Union City to provide similar services. Grants may range from $1,500 up to $5,000, depending upon the jurisdiction and the scope of the work. Rehabilitation work is completed by licensed contractors, who must be reputable and carry appropriate insurance.
Finance Manager April Williamson came to the Program with 18 years of finance experience in the private sector. “I was drawn to give back to my community,” she says, “My professional background enables me to effectively manage the Department’s funding and budget. I make the money stretch, so that the federal, state, local, and county funding received is used to best assist our clients.” April works closely with Department staff to ensure that funds are used in accordance with government requirements and that completed repairs address as many risk issues as possible for approved applicants.
Healthy Homes Department Finance Manager April Williamson
Housing Rehabilitation Technician Timothee Lavender joined the Healthy Homes Department Minor Home Repair (MHR) Program about 15 months ago. His 14 years as a home inspector and handyman have been a great fit; Timothee meets with homeowners for the income verification process and to determine the scope of work, as well as recruiting contractors and confirming that projects are completed to specs.