by Ivan Sanchez, October 9, 2024
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced more than $87 million in funding for public housing agencies (PHAs) nationwide to evaluate and remediate prominent health hazards in public housing, including lead-based paint, carbon monoxide, mold, and fire safety risks. This funding includes 14 awards totaling $47.7 million under the Lead-Based Paint (LBP) Capital Fund program and 22 awards totaling $40 million under the Capital Fund Housing-Related Hazards (HRH) program.
“Far too many Americans, especially children, are living in at-risk conditions, including older homes that expose them to lead-based paint hazards,” said HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “The funding announced today is a crucial step in identifying these risks and working towards a future where unhealthy housing is no longer an issue.”
Among the states benefitting from these grants, Tennessee stands out with significant awards aimed at reducing health hazards in public housing. The state’s allocations are part of HUD’s ongoing commitment to improving living conditions for residents in older housing units, which often present serious health risks.
In Tennessee, Rogersville Housing Authority received $1,776,395 and Woodbury Housing Authority received $4,400,000.
These substantial grants are designed to help mitigate risks associated with lead-based paint and other hazardous conditions. According to HUD’s American Healthy Homes Survey II, over 34 million homes in America contain lead paint, putting millions at risk, particularly young children and low-income families. In Tennessee, where older homes are prevalent, the funding aims to address these age-old issues that have significant implications for community health.
“The negative effects of lead poisoning can be lifelong and might lead to learning disabilities, behavioral issues, and serious health challenges among both children and adults,” remarked HUD Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Richard Monocchio. “This funding will help remediate housing units with potential lead exposure, ultimately protecting families—especially those with limited resources—from the dangers of lead poisoning and other harmful contaminants.”
This initiative is part of a broader move by HUD and the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure that all Americans have access to healthy living environments. Additionally, the funding will assist PHAs in complying with the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE), which enhances oversight and strengthens inspection standards for housing safety.
As Tennessee agencies work to implement these improvements, the funding represents an important step toward healthier homes and communities throughout the state.