WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a significant move to enhance public health and safety, Pennsylvania communities are set to receive more than $43 million from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as part of the FY2024 Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction (LHR) Grant Program. This substantial funding targets the elimination of lead-based paint dangers in homes, a critical step forward for families across the state, particularly in Allegheny County, Allentown, Harrisburg, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and Erie.
Senator John Fetterman emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This is a huge win for Pennsylvania families. No child should grow up in a home that makes them sick. These grants will help get rid of dangerous lead paint in some of our oldest housing stock and give families the safe, healthy homes they deserve.”
Senator Bob Casey echoed these sentiments, highlighting the peace of mind that comes with knowing homes are free from such hazards. “This funding will help identify and remove hazardous lead paint from homes so that Pennsylvanians have the peace of mind that their housing is not putting their families at risk. I will always fight to keep Pennsylvanian families healthy and safe.”
The program, designed to mitigate the health risks posed by lead paint—particularly for children under six—aims not only to address these hazards but also to promote affordable housing, revitalize communities, and enhance public health outcomes. The grants awarded to specific regions include $7.75 million each for Allegheny County, Harrisburg, and Lancaster, $7 million for Philadelphia, and various amounts for other communities, ensuring widespread impact.
Congressman Deluzio highlighted the federal commitment, noting, “Any exposure to any level of lead puts all of us, especially our kids, at risk. We need to make sure that everyone can live and grow up in homes that are clean, safe, and lead-free.”
Congresswoman Susan Wild described the funding as “incredible news for Allentown,” emphasizing its role in improving housing conditions and public health. Similarly, Congressman Mike Kelly underscored the program’s importance for Erie, stating, “This funding will greatly help families, especially children, in the City of Erie.”
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to maintain and improve existing housing stock, complementing Senator Fetterman’s bipartisan Whole-Home Repairs Act. This act, which seeks to expand a successful Pennsylvania program nationwide, underscores the critical need for home repairs in underserved areas, aiming to address the housing crisis, prevent blight, and ensure families can remain in their homes.
As this funding rolls out, Pennsylvania stands at the forefront of a national effort to tackle lead hazards and promote healthier living environments, ensuring a safer future for its residents.
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