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Tag: Department of Environmental Protection

News

April 15, 2026

State Offering Free Water Sampling Program for Child Care Facilities

The Shapiro Administration is launching a free water sampling program for eligible schools and child care facilities to test for lead in drinking water.

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The initiative – through the state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) – is funded by the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act’s Voluntary School and Child Care Lead Testing and Reduction Grant Program. 

The program – which is in partnership with Terraphase Engineering – offers no-cost water testing and, for those with elevated lead levels, grant funding to support lead-reduction activities, such as installing hydration stations.

Eligible applicants could receive up to $3,000 per installed hydration station. The program’s aim is to protect children’s health and make sure they’re drinking safe water.

Schools and child care centers that meet the criteria are encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted online through the state’s electronic application. Enrollment is open and will remain so until funds are exhausted.

More information can be found on the DEP’s website.

News

July 1, 2025

DEP Offering Lead Testing Grants to Schools and Child Care Facilities

The state Department of Environmental Protection is offering lead testing grants to schools and child care facilities.

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Child care facilities and schools located in Pennsylvania with lead in drinking water sample results within 36 months of the application date showing water fixtures exceeding the remediation trigger level of 5 parts per billion may apply.

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

Funding for the grant has been appropriated under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Those who receive grants will be provided with up to $3,000 per hydration station per 100 students in one building. Up to $30,000 may be awarded per building or child care facility, while $100,000 may be given per school district.

Those interested in applying 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. 

More information on the grant can be found on the DEP’s website.