For the past three years the city of Akron has been using a $4-million federal grant to remove lead paint from older homes where young children live in Akron.

But this is the last year for the grant program, according to city Grants Manager Nancy Cook.

"We will be offering grants and deferred loans for folks who need to get their properties fixed up to get the lead based paints out the homes," said Cook.  

Cook said any home built before 1978 contains lead paint. She says the city is targeting homes with children under the age of six, since they are most vulnerable to lead poisoning from paint.

"This will affect, not only folks within the city of Akron, but also some of the surrounding communities including Barberton and parts of Summit County,"

Cook said residents who are interested in applying for the lead removal program are urged to contact the city this spring or early summer.

Residents who would like more information and an application can contact the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation at (330) 773-2058.