This heartfelt thank-you note shows what our work truly means to families: These programs don't just improve homes—they protect children's health and future potential. Lead exposure can cause permanent neurological damage, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Unfortunately, this critical work is now at risk. Recent federal cuts have eliminated the entire Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice at the CDC, including the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. Additional cuts to HUD funding are being considered that would further devastate lead remediation projects nationwide. In Mercer County alone, an estimated 10,000 housing units where children live contain dangerous lead paint. Every family deserves a safe home. SPEAK UP: Help us protect these vital programs! Visit https://isles.org/call-to-action/ to make your voice heard. #LeadSafety #ProtectPublicHealth #EnvironmentalJustice #Isles #TrentonNJ (fb)

When AmeriCorps funding disappears, so does essential community work - That is exactly what's happening with the recent $221,000 cut to Isles' program in Trenton. Jenara Kim-Prieto is one of the faces behind those numbers. A recent Grinnell College graduate and Trenton native, she chose to serve her hometown - planting over 100 trees, managing rooftop beehives, improving public spaces, and constructing raised garden beds that benefit our entire community. "I wanted to be working in Trenton because I grew up here and wanted to contribute to my community," says Jenara. But there won’t be any more Jenara’s at Isles. With this funding cut, Isles will not be able to recruit the new class of twelve AmeriCorps volunteers to continue this work. Help us fight to save AmeriCorps and keep this important working going. These cuts affect real people and the important work they do for our communities. SPEAK UP. Visit https://isles.org/call-to-action/ to learn how you can help us continue this vital community work. #SaveAmeriCorps #CommunityService #Trenton #IslesInc (fb)