Lead Poisoning Prevention Outreach for Expectant and New Parents Grant

The District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), through its Environmental Services Administration – Lead-Safe and Healthy Homes Division (LHHD), is soliciting applications for the “Lead Poisoning Prevention Outreach for Expectant and New Parents” grant. This initiative seeks to mitigate environmental lead exposure among children by engaging expectant and new parents in Washington, D.C. with targeted educational and outreach activities. The goal is to raise awareness and promote prevention strategies, particularly for children under the age of six who are at the highest risk of irreversible developmental harm from lead poisoning. This grant program is part of the District's broader efforts to reduce childhood lead exposure. It complements existing programs like the District’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program and operates under the mandate of local laws requiring lead screening for young children. By focusing on education and awareness, the program intends to bridge gaps in public knowledge and promote safe practices within households and communities most at risk. The DOEE emphasizes culturally appropriate and multilingual outreach methods, ensuring inclusivity and effective engagement across Washington, D.C.’s diverse population. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations (including those with 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) status), faith-based organizations, universities or educational institutions, private enterprises, and government agencies. Applicants are encouraged to develop outreach plans that demonstrate capacity to engage at least 150 residents, including via person-to-person engagement, event presence, printed materials, and digital communications. Teams must also include individuals trained in lead safety or be willing to undergo DOEE-facilitated training. Grant funds, totaling $67,281, may be used for allowable project expenses, which include but are not limited to: staff salaries, educational materials, event costs, and indirect costs as defined under DOEE guidelines. Funds are typically disbursed on a reimbursement basis, with limited exceptions allowing for advance payments. Matching contributions, though not explicitly required, are welcomed and may be considered during evaluation. Projects must be completed by September 29, 2026, though extensions may be granted based on performance and funding availability. Applicants must submit proposals through DOEE’s Grants Management System (GMS) by 11:59 p.m. on March 27, 2026. All required application materials—including a work plan, project narrative, budget, financial documents, and relevant certifications—must be submitted electronically. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted unless exceptional circumstances arise and are documented ahead of the deadline. Applications will be evaluated by a panel based on the strength of the proposed outreach strategy, the applicant’s experience in community engagement and public health, and the cost-effectiveness of the proposed budget. Required deliverables include monthly status reports, promotional materials, and documentation of expenditures. The program is not explicitly recurring, and next cycle availability will be contingent on performance reviews and additional funding decisions.