Richmond has eliminated the lead paint hazard from 32 homes so far using a $2.3 million federal grant and has 13 more residential units that will be worked on, data show.

However, the city is seeking another 105 qualifying property owners interested in getting the lead out, particularly those with young children who suffer the most from exposure to the hazardous metal.

Mayor Levar M. Stoney joined with the Richmond City Health District and other state and city officials Monday to promote awareness of the dangers of lead paint and the assistance available to remove it.

The health district provides lead screening for children under age 6.

Just a small amount of lead can affect the brain, organ and bone development of young children.

According to state data, at least 16,000 Richmond babies, toddlers and kindergarten-age children live in homes built before 1978, when lead paint was banned, and are considered at risk from exposure.

Mayor Stoney and other officials also are encouraging fami- lies to sign up to have their residences tested to determine the level of lead paint and to consider signing up for the removal program.

Details: Daniel Mouer, (804) 646-7025; George Jones, (804) 205-3735; or project:HOMES, (804) 718-0157 or www.projecthomes.org/lead-remediation.