Secretary Martinez yesterday released the names of 11 U.S. communities, which currently operate highly successful lead hazard control programs, that will receive an additional $29 million in funding to continue protecting thousands of children from the deadly effects of lead poisoning.

"These programs really are among the best of the best," the Secretary said. "Each has demonstrated an ability to make their program a model for others in the country to imitate. In the end, more children and families living in low-income housing will be protected from potentially dangerous lead poisoning."

The funding is part of HUD's $176 million commitment this year to protect children from lead and other home health and safety hazards.

HUD's Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control grants are targeted to low-income privately owned homes most likely to expose children to health hazards.

Lead poisoning in children can reduce IQ, cause learning disabilities and impair hearing. Children who have elevated blood lead levels often experience reduced attention spans, are hyperactive and can exhibit behavior problems. At higher exposures, lead can damage a child's kidneys and central nervous system and cause anemia, coma, convulsions and even death. Nearly 500,000 U.S. children under age six have blood lead levels high enough to impair the ability to think, concentrate and learn.

An estimated 26 million fewer homes contain lead-based paint compared to 1990 when the Department launched its Lead Hazard Control program.