Grant Award Summary

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) received a $1.285 million Project Grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 1 under the Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program (CFDA 66.444). The award, effective June 1, 2026, through September 30, 2028, will fund a comprehensive lead testing and remediation initiative at schools and child care facilities throughout Massachusetts. MassDEP will partner with the University of Massachusetts, Amherst to implement a four-part approach: (1) communicating testing results and lead health information to the public, parents, teachers, and communities through press releases, social media, website content, and informational sessions; (2) training schools and child care facilities on lead health risks and testing protocols; (3) conducting lead testing using appropriate testing methodologies and certified laboratories; and (4) developing responsive action plans for elevated lead findings and providing reimbursement for remediation activities.

The grant activities align with EPA's 3Ts guidance framework (Communicate, Train, Test, Take Action) established under the Safe Drinking Water Act, Section 1464(d), as amended by the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act. Outreach efforts will utilize multiple channels, including statewide emails from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and Department of Early Education and Care, a dedicated hotline, and in-person and virtual training sessions to ensure Massachusetts schools and child care facilities have access to critical information and support for voluntary lead remediation efforts.