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A Safer Home, A Brighter Future: The Khaing Family’s Story
San and Brandon Khaing are loving parents to three energetic young boys—Harrison, Jaxson, and Kyson. Their world turned upside down when a routine medical exam revealed that Kyson, their youngest, had an elevated lead blood level. Concerned and determined to protect their children, San and Brandon set out to find the source of the lead exposure in their home.
Following guidance from the local health department, they took immediate steps—using wet cleaning techniques and painting over chipping and peeling surfaces to minimize exposure. But they soon realized that a long-term solution would require much more. Their home needed extensive lead remediation, including replacing old windows and doors, repainting walls and ceilings, and repairing the exterior. Adding to their worries, their aging roof leaked so badly that they had to set out a bucket during storms. San constantly worried about being a burden to her neighbors as loose shingles scattered onto their properties.
With only Brandon’s income supporting the family, these necessary repairs seemed impossible to afford. Determined to find a solution, San and Brandon applied for assistance through HomeOwnershipCenter and Lead-Safe Utica Program. With that support, they were able to access the resources needed to complete the crucial renovations without taking on a financial burden that would have overextended their family.
Now, their home is transformed. The windows open safely, allowing fresh air to flow in. The new doors and windows provide warmth in the winter and help lower their energy bills. But most importantly, their home is finally lead-safe.
San’s greatest relief? “My kids are safe and secure,” she says, watching Kyson explore every corner of their home with peace of mind.
At a recent medical check-up, they received the best news yet—Kyson’s lead levels had dropped significantly, from 9 µg/dL to 4 µg/dL. The Khaings are deeply grateful for the support they received. “We really appreciate the help that HomeOwnershipCenter and Lead-Safe Utica provided our family through this difficult situation. Our kids are safer, and our whole family is healthier and secure.”
Lead-Safe Utica addresses lead hazards in privately-owned housing using funds awarded to the City of Utica by HUD. This program aims to prevent childhood lead poisoning by creating lead-safe housing and helps homeowners, landlords, and tenants control hazards from lead in paint, soil, and dust.
There is funding available to help identify and address lead and safety hazards that may be in your home and harming your family. Click to find out more about the Lead-Safe Utica Program and how you may qualify.
The HomeOwnershipCenter – chartered in 1979 by NeighborWorks America; promotes housing and community development through programs such as Homebuyer Education and Financial Coaching, housing rehabilitation, and foreclosure prevention and intervention. Take the first step toward your housing goals today—contact the HOC team to learn how we can help!
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