We recently connected with Taryn Fomby, Assistant Director of Nursing at Care Alliance Health Center and a clinical lead of the Lead Safe Screening & Testing Program. This program is part of the broader work of the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition.
Taryn shared thoughtful insights about development and health impacts as well as the importance of community advocacy. Her responses offer a deeper look at the work happening in our community to protect children and families.
How can community groups best support your work in educating families about lead poisoning prevention?
Community groups play a vital role in helping us reach families with meaningful, trusted education about lead poisoning prevention. At Care Alliance, we serve many families in older housing throughout Cleveland, where the risk for lead exposure remains a very real concern. Community organizations help us bridge gaps by meeting families where they are — in schools, churches, shelters, community centers, and neighborhood events — spaces where trust already exists. By partnering with us to share culturally sensitive education, host screening events, distribute prevention materials, and reinforce safe housing practices, community groups help ensure families receive consistent, compassionate messaging.
Equally important, community partners help us identify barriers families face, whether it's housing instability, limited resources for home repairs, or lack of awareness about testing. When community groups work alongside healthcare providers, we create a stronger safety net — one that not only educates but empowers families to take action. Together, we can protect children during their most critical developmental years and move closer to our shared goal of healthier homes, healthier families, and stronger communities across Cleveland.
What early signs of lead exposure or developmental changes should parents watch for?
At Care Alliance, we encourage families to understand that lead exposure often has no obvious early symptoms, which makes awareness and routine screening especially important in the communities we serve across Cleveland, where older housing increases risk.
Parents should watch for subtle changes such as delays in speech or learning, difficulty paying attention, increased irritability, low energy, or stomach complaints. Some children may also experience changes in behavior, trouble meeting developmental milestones, or difficulty in school. Because lead affects brain development, even small changes can be important.
We encourage parents to trust their instincts. If something seems different, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider. Early screening and early intervention help us support children, educate families, and prevent long-term effects.