On October 9, the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department (TLCHD) will join communities nationwide in recognizing Children’s Environmental Health Day, a nationwide observance dedicated to raising awareness about the critical connections between children’s health and the environments in which they live, learn, and play.

Children are uniquely vulnerable to environmental hazards, including toxins and pollutants found in consumer products, food, housing, and workplaces. These exposures can affect growth and development and increase risks for reproductive health concerns. Clean air and water, safe food, and healthy environments are essential for every child’s future.

Today, in recognition of this important topic, the Lucas County Commissioners signed an official proclamation to declare October 9 as Children’s Environmental Health Day in Lucas County. This proclamation affirms the community’s commitment to protecting children and creating safe, healthy environments for all families.

“Protecting children’s environmental health is protecting our community’s future,” said Health Commissioner Karim Baroudi. “We often think about food or consumer product safety as adult health issues, but we cannot forget that children, and even infants, face the greatest risks. Healthy environments are essential for healthy pregnancies, healthy births, and healthy childhoods.”

The observance encourages communities and policymakers to advocate for changes that create safer, healthier environments for all children.

TLCHD invites residents, community partners, and policymakers to reflect on how local action can improve children’s environmental health and reduce disparities in infant and maternal outcomes.

“Every child deserves a healthy start in life,” added Melissa Lanier, Chair of the Environmental Pollutants Subcommittee of the Getting to 1 Coalition. “By recognizing Children’s Environmental Health Day, we’re shining a light on how our environment impacts not only childhood, but reproductive health and infant survival.”