PA Child Care Facilities Can Apply for Lead Testing and Reduction Grant

Pennsylvania child care facilities are invited to apply for the Voluntary School and Childcare Lead Testing and Reduction Grant, the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) said.

Who Should Apply

Pennsylvania childcare facilities with lead in drinking water sample results within 36 months of the application date showing water fixtures exceeding the remediation trigger level of 5 ppb (parts per billion) are invited to apply for the grant.

The WIIN 2107: Voluntary School and Childcare Lead Testing and Reduction Grant is offered through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

Reduction activities may include purchasing and installing hydration stations, point-of-use devices designed to remove lead, or replacement of faucets. The primary goal of the grant program is to reduce children’s exposure to lead in drinking water.

Funding under the grant has been appropriated under 1464(d) of the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Funding provided will be up to $3,000 per hydration station per 100 students in one building. Up to $30,000 may be awarded per building/child care facility or $100,000 per school district.

Applicants are encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting to discuss their lead reduction plans to ensure they meet applicable program criteria. Meetings can be scheduled by emailing RA-EPWIINLEAD@pa.gov.