The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is making approximately $110 million in grants available nationwide to help eliminate dangerous lead-based paint from lower income homes and to protect young children from lead poisoning.

The grants to states and local governments are being offered through HUD’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control and Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration Programs.

"These grants are critical for states, counties and cities who are on the front lines of protecting our children from dangerous lead hazards," said Jon Gant, director of the Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control. "While we have made remarkable progress toward eliminating lead poisoning in children nationwide, now is the time to focus on reaching the finish line. We look forward to communities applying for these grants so that they can help make older housing safer and healthier for children."