Mississippi Action for Progress, Inc. (MAP) recognizes that it is imperative to not only eliminate the disparity in the educational system by providing low-income families with a Head Start, but it is necessary to address pertinent health concerns. Such issues include exposure to toxic products and materials by way of contaminated water and food, air pollution, and exposure to lead. Among these, exposure to lead adversely affects children under the age of six, retarding learning and development, health, and overall wellness.
In an effort to meet the holistic needs of children and families in rural Mississippi, MAP, Inc. is working collaboratively with the Mississippi Department of Health in the Rural Mississippi Childhood Lead Poisoning Awareness and Prevention Program to enhance awareness, educate parents and healthcare providers, and the general public about lead poisoning and exposure in three of MAP, Inc.'s counties: Leflore, Warren and Yazoo.
The programs objectives are to facilitate community-based seminars and workshops, distribute printed information, and implement a systematic referral system to detect conditions of exposure and treat lead poisoning. We hope that this program will decrease exposure of lead mong children, heighten awareness of prevention strategies, and build strong ties with the community.