houston – U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development officials say they have awarded more than $125 million to 26 states and government agencies to protect children and families from lead-based paint and additional hazards in their homes. increase.

According to information released by HUD, the city of Houston will receive $8,000,000 for the Lead Disaster Mitigation Demonstration Program and $700,000 for the Healthy Home Grant.

Through these grants, officials will use resources to find and clean up dangerous lead for low-income families living in old homes, HUD says.

“These investments will protect families and children by targeting severe lead and health hazards in more than 4,000 low-income families where other resources are unavailable,” officials said in a news release. .

HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge said: The funds provided today will help these families, especially their children, become healthier and improve their attendance and experience in school and work for decades to come. ”