FAQ

Who was Josiah Hill III?
- Josiah Hill III was a physician assistant and community activist. He recognized the urgent need to decrease the risk of childhood lead poisoning in minority children and started a program of health screenings and lead testing through a volunteer clinic. To read more about this visionary man, please visit our About Us page.
Where are you located?
- Our administrative offices are located at 5018 NE 15th, Portland, OR. We do not do lead testing from this office. Please see our calendar for the next available lead testing clinic or contact our office for more information: (503) 802.7389.
Where can I get my children tested for lead?
- We offer monthly clinics at a variety of locations in the City of Portland. Blood lead tests are provided on a first come, first served basis. For groups of ten or more who wish to provide blood lead testing to their members, please contact our Program Manager, Kimie Ueoka, at kimie@jhillclinic.org or call, (503) 802-7389 to discuss the potential of hosting a private clinic for your group. Check out our current calendar of events to see our list of upcoming clinics, including the locations and times. You can also schedule an individual screening at the JHC office by calling the above number.
How does blood testing work?
- We use a capillary or “finger-stick” test, meaning a few drops of blood will be taken through a prick of the finger. Many individuals find capillary tests to be less invasive and easier, especially for children.
What if the test finds a high level of lead in my child’s blood?
- Since the “finger-stick” test is only a screening test, we strongly encourage individuals with elevated levels to confirm their level through a venous test (vein draw) by their medical provider. If you do not have a provider, we will work with you to receive a confirmatory test. Keep in mind, there are ways to lower blood lead levels. The main way is to determine the source(s) of lead exposure and to remove the source. Our partners will work with you to identify your source of exposure and provide information and resources to eliminate the exposure source. When steps are taken to reduce the source of lead exposure, blood lead levels drop. We can also answer any questions you may have and link you to any needed resources.
Where can I learn more about lead exposure and household toxins?
- Josiah Hill III Clinic hosts and/or tables at community events and fairs throughout the year. At these outreach events feel free to stop by, ask us questions and learn more about our programs. Please check our calendar for the next outreach event. You can also visit our Create a Healthy Home page for information and resources on creating healthy homes and communities.
What can I do to create a healthy home?
- There are seven main ways to have a healthy home—keep it dry, clean, pest-free, safe, contaminant free, ventilated, and maintained. There are simple, affordable steps which help create home environments that are supportive of good health and well being. Please visit our Create a Healthy Home page to learn more. Here we discuss the connection between the environment and our health. We provide information and tips on improving indoor air quality and green cleaning.
There is mold in our house. What can I do?
- If there is mold growth in your home, it is important to both clean up the mold (ideally with green or healthy cleaners) and fix the water or moisture problem. Addressing both will help get rid of the mold which is present and prevent the mold from growing. To address the cause of the moisture, think about structural components of your home as well as behaviors-what can be causing the moisture? For instance, are exhaust fans turned on or windows opened while cooking and showering? Do the exhaust fans work? Is there a leaky pipe that needs to be fixed? By addressing the moisture you can address the spread/growth of the mold. If you are a renter and need assistance in having a repair made, you can connect with the Community Alliance of Tenants for information on how to request the repair.
What are green cleaners and how are they different from regular cleaning supplies?
- “Green cleaners” are those which are healthier alternatives to cleaners with toxic chemicals. Many household cleaners contain chemicals, some of which are toxic. It can be tricky while shopping to determine which cleaners are better for you. Just because a cleaner is marketed as “green” or “natural” does not mean that it does not contain harmful chemicals. It is important to look for warning words on cleaners such as “caution,” “warning” or “poison.” These chemicals may cause short-term health problems like skin and eye irritation when you use them or they may have long-term health impacts. Some cleaning products are known carcinogens and contain chemicals which may trigger or cause asthma and reproductive harm.
What are steps I can take to protect my child from poisons and chemicals?
- Chemicals and poisons exist in a variety of places around the home including some household cleaners, antifreeze, pest sprays, nail polish remover, perfumes and after shaves and many others. Here are a few tips to keep in mind. It is important to make sure the room is well ventilated when using cleaners or other household products that may contain chemicals. Remember to store poisons away from food and drinks and install child proof latches on cabinets where you keep chemicals. If you believe your child has ingested or inhaled poisons, or if you have any questions, contact Oregon Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. If you would like to learn more about healthy green cleaners, Josiah Hill III Clinic offers green cleaning workshops that cover the warning words on cleaners and what they mean, show you how to make your own green/healthy cleaners and include a kit of materials to take home.
How can I volunteer?
- The Josiah Hill III Clinic could not do the work it does without volunteers. Each volunteer brings a unique perspective and common desire to reduce toxins and help improve the health of our community. We are fortunate that our volunteers reflect diversity in age, education, professional and personal experience. It’s easy to get involved! You can download a Volunteer Application (pdf) or call for more information.
My business is interested in hosting a group volunteer day. What opportunities exist?
- Depending upon the season, we have different group volunteer opportunities. Sometimes these are in-office projects available such as packing green cleaning kits or assembling outreach materials. Other times we have outdoor fairs where volunteers can help. Contact us to discuss your group needs and see if we have an opportunity that would be a good fit.
How can I make a donation?
- You can make an online donation, or send your donation to us at 5018 NE 15th Ave, Portland, OR 97211. If you would like to bring by your donation, feel free to contact our Executive Director, Charles A. McGee, II at charles@jhillclinic.org or call (503) 334-9694 as well. Josiah Hill III Clinic is a 501c3 non-profit and our tax id number is 93-133059.
My business or organization is interested in sponsoring a Josiah Hill III Clinic program. Who do I contact to talk about the partnership?
- We would be happy to speak with you about sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorship opportunities include blood lead testing clinics, green cleaning workshops, volunteer trainings and others. Please contact our Director at charles@jhillclinic.org or call (503) 334-9694
I’d like to share a success story, where do I go?
- Thank you! We love to hear from community members that we’ve helped. Please submit a story by emailing our Director, Charles A. McGee, II, at charles@jhillclinic.org or call (503) 334-9694
- How can I get a copy of your latest Newsletter?
  - Send a message to Alison Sheldon at alison@jhillclinic.org.