October 16, 2024

Merkley, Wyden Announce Major Federal Funding to Protect Portland’s Kids from Lead-Based Paint

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today $7.75 million in federal funding was awarded to the City of Portland to keep young children safe from lead-based paint hazards in older homes.

“No Oregonian—regardless of where they live—should have to worry about whether their home is poisoning them or their children,” said Merkley. “This federal funding will help Portland address the threats posed by remnants of lead-based paint hazards. I will continue to fight for more resources to ensure that every Oregonian has a safe place to call home.”

“All Oregonians should feel safe in their homes free of fear that lead paint threatens their health or that of their loved ones,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these federal resources will aid Portland’s work to reduce the dangers of lead paint, and I’ll keep battling to secure similar investments for communities all across Oregon.”

The federal funding comes from the Fiscal Year 2024 Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The purpose of this program is to protect children under the age of six years from the impacts of lead-based paint poisoning, especially kids in low-income and underserved communities, who are among the most at risk. Funds can be used to fix older housing, preserve affordable housing, and enhance lead hazard control efforts by identifying and addressing other housing-related health risks to keep children and families healthy and safe.

The City of Portland will specifically use its $7.75 million Lead Hazard Reduction and Healthy Home Supplemental grant to serve 136 Portland households over four years.

"We are deeply honored and grateful for this vital support from HUD," said Portland Housing Bureau Director Helmi Hisserich. "This funding allows us to do more than just repair homes—it empowers us to protect the health and well-being of our youngest and most vulnerable residents. By ensuring every child can grow up in a safe, healthy environment, we're improving lives today and building stronger communities and a brighter future for Portland."

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