Federal Grant Targets Lead Paint in Milwaukee and Kenosha Homes

MILWAUKEE, Wis (Civic Media) — Southeastern Wisconsin is set to receive almost $13 million in federal funding to combat lead paint hazards in homes, officials announced Monday.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction grant program will allocate $7.75 million to Milwaukee County and nearly $5.2 million to Kenosha County. A statement says the funding aims to protect children under six from lead poisoning and improve overall community health.

US Senator Tammy Baldwin’s office sent out a media release regarding the funding.  In it, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley is quoted, talking about the importance of addressing lead paint. “Milwaukeeans deserve both affordable and safe housing,” Crowley said, expressing gratitude for the federal support.

Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman highlighted the grant’s impact on children’s health and safety in Kenosha and Racine counties, also noting the bi-partisian effort. “We’re thankful to our federal partners — Senators Baldwin and Johnson, and Congressman Steil — for their continuing support of this program in our community.”

The funds will support ongoing efforts to identify and address lead paint hazards. The initiative is part of a broader effort to eliminate toxic chemicals from children’s environments. 

President Joe Biden is in Milwaukee this week discussing other lead impacts, talking about his administration’s efforts to replace lead water pipes.