Many homes in Rochester’s neighborhoods, particularly Census Tracts 1–3, were built before 1980 and face poor ventilation, high radon exposure, and energy inefficiencies. These areas also experience higher rates of asthma and heart disease and have average life expectancies up to 15 years shorter than the Minnesota state average. This program directly addresses these disparities by combining trusted peer-to-peer outreach with tangible home improvements and connections to programs and resources.

The Rochester Healthy Home Helpers program aims to:

• Improve indoor air quality, home safety, and energy efficiency.
• Reduce household energy burdens through rebates, weatherization and education.
• Build community capacity and a local green workforce by training and compensating Navigators.
• Advance goals identified in Rochester’s Sustainability & Resiliency Community Work Plan and support efforts that reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the building energy sector. 

During an in-home consultation, a team of Navigators will walk through your home with you and discuss causes of indoor air pollution and safety concerns. You will get personalized recommendations, resources, and access to other additional services. Assessments will be 1-2 hours and all resources and services for this program are free! Items inside the Healthy Home Energy Kits reach a value exceeding $130, items including:

• Green cleaning supplies
• Insulation spray foam
• Weatherization materials
• LED light bulbs
• Child safety outlet covers
• Faucet aerator
• Low-flow showerhead
• Carbon monoxide/smoke detector
• Radon test voucher
• RPU Energy Audit voucher

Starting in Spring 2026, a link will be available here for Rochester community residents to sign up and request an At-Home Consultation with a team of Navigators.