Leadie Eddie Comes to Minnesota

SRC's sister CLEARCorps affiliate in New Jersey, Gateway Maternal & Child Health Consortium, Inc., has developed a family outreach program based on a Muppet-like character named “Leadie Eddie”. Their education efforts have developed a higher profile since the inception of this program. In a recent “Google” search, 119 hits (9 pages of event links) came back as a result, documenting the broad range of activities in which they use “Leadie Eddie”. SRC is replicating that experience here in Minnesota.

SRC's screening targets high-risk, vulnerable, and underserved populations to identify parents for education and outreach. We work to reach parents at community events held at churches, homeless shelters, healthcare providers, day care, pre-schools, and other neighborhood locations.

Blood testing for lead levels is the most effective tool for persuading high-risk families to enroll in lead hazard remediation/reduction programs. By revealing that their child may already be suffering the effects of lead poisoning, test results motivate parents to reduce lead in their environment. The “Leadie Eddie” character appeals to children most at risk for lead poisoning-ages from birth to 6 years. The character draws attention and delivers lead-safe messages, while the mobile van provides space for efficient, private screening. Screening makes it clear to parents that lead-safe housing a personal issue, with a direct impact on the family's well being.

“Leadie Eddie” makes screening fun and easy. Picture the colorful “Leadie Eddie” van pulling into a community event. The 30-foot sky-dancer “Leadie Eddie” undulates in the breeze over the van and, in a kid friendly voice, offers lead-safe messages. “Leadie Eddie” puppet shows introduce kids to the idea of testing.

The testing process provides opportunity for a number of contacts with parents that can help to drive home the need for enrollment in lead reduction programs. Potential contacts include an initial meeting with the parent and child, at which the consent form is signed; at the testing site, where additional information is provided; a follow-up phone call to transmit test results (SRC also sends the test results to the child's primary care physician); a follow-up letter to confirm test results; and an in-home visit to do a preliminary visual assessment.

Our experience in child lead testing has allowed us to deal with potential obstacles prior to implementation of the “Leadie Eddie” screening program. SRC is pleased to provide this valuable service to the community

For additional information, Contact us or check our links .