HUD Awards Grants for Lead Paint Cleanup in Massachusetts

The federal government is putting $15 million in grants toward cleaning up lead paint and other safety hazards in the homes of low-income Massachusetts families with children.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development says the money will go toward projects in six areas, including Boston, Lawrence and Lowell.

HUD says lead-based paint was banned for residential use in 1978, but that the hazard still exists in many homes today.

Officials say lead exposure can lead to health problems in children that can include learning disabilities and central nervous system damage.

The funding is part of $98 million in nationwide grants to fund lead paint cleanup, increase public awareness about childhood lead poisoning, and train workers in lead-safe work practices.