Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Launches $4 Million Initiative to Protect Families from Lead Hazards

NEW CARROLLTON, MD (March 12, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development today announced the launch of its new Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program, supported by $4 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The program is designed to create safer homes and protect the health of Maryland families by providing lead hazard assessment, full remediation, and final clearance testing to ensure properties meet strict federal and state lead safety standards.

“This new initiative will bring immediate and long-term health benefits to Maryland communities acutely impacted by lead hazards,” said Secretary Jake Day. “This is a crucial step in the Department’s ongoing commitment to ensuring healthy homes for all Marylanders.”

The program targets lead hazards in homes built before 1978 across Maryland’s 23 counties. The federal investment will fund lead abatement in over 150 homes across Maryland, directly reducing the risk of lead poisoning and its associated health issues, particularly for children and other vulnerable community members.

The Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program will be managed by the Department’s Whole Home Energy and Repairs team, which works to expand access to quality housing through programs to meet unique housing needs. The program’s focus on properties in communities where lead hazards have been historically neglected will support Maryland’s disinvested communities by leveraging state health data to prioritize services.

The Department will deliver these services in coordination with key partners, including the Maryland Department of Health, the Maryland Department of the Environment, and local governments. Support through the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program will be integrated with existing healthy homes initiatives, such as the state-funded Lead Hazard Reduction Grant and Loan Programs and the Healthy Homes for Healthy Kids (HH4K) program, providing a holistic approach to home health.

Eligible homeowners and landlords are encouraged to apply. For more information on the program, including program guidelines, eligibility criteria, and to apply, visit the Department’s website.

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CONTACT:
Allison Foster, Director of Communications – allison.foster@maryland.gov