WATERBURY–It was announced today that the city of Waterbury has received more than $3 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, via the Lead Hazard Control grant and funds from Healthy Home Supplemental.

The money is aimed at protecting kids and families from the dangers of lead-based paints and other residential health and safety hazards, such as mold.

“Every family deserves to live in a safe and healthy home where they can see their children thrive and excel,” HUD Secretary Julian Castro said. “A healthy home is vital to the American Dream.”

The $2.9 million in lead funding will go towards 210 eligible low-income housing units, while $325,000 will be used to eradicate other home health hazards like mold.

“This grant is welcome news for Waterbury, where we have been very proactive in educating our residents of the dangers of lead-based paints,” Waterbury Mayor Neil M. O’Leary said.

Nationwide, the HUD has given out $101 million to 32 municipality, county and state governments to get rid of lead.

The money given to Waterbury will be distributed over a 36-month period.

“This is great,” Waterbury Public Health Director William Quinn said. “Only 16 grantees got awards this round so Waterbury must have been high on the list.”

U.S. Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal and Rep. Elizabeth Esty all wrote to HUD Secretary Julian Castro in support of Waterbury’s application.