Warmer homes are being targeted to reduce the numbers of children entering Dunedin Hospital with respiratory illnesses

Public Health South, Aukaha and Habitat for Humanity Dunedin have received funding for the first 50 families' homes from the Healthcare Otago Charitable Trust.

Their homes will be made dryer by stopping drafts and adding film to improve the insulation of windows.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Susan Jack says too many children are hospitalised because of avoidable health problems.

She says children under 15 will be eligible for the joint initiative if they've been admitted to hospital overnight with bronchiolitis or other housing-related conditions.