The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last week announced nearly $4.2 million to fund seven projects across Massachusetts, including a $1 million grant to help indoor air quality in Dorchester homes.

The EPA’s Environmental Justice Government to Government grant (EJG2G) will provide $1 million to the City of Boston for improving indoor air quality and electric infrastructure of properties in Dorchester, replacing gas stoves with electric coil ranges and induction stoves, promoting environmental benefits, green job opportunities, and addressing public health concerns such as asthma in the community.

This funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act and is a part of the largest investment ever announced under two longstanding EPA programs. It is the first in a series of grant announcements the agency will announce before the end of the year.

“No president has invested more in environmental justice than President Biden, and under his leadership we’re removing longstanding barriers and meaningfully collaborating with communities to build a healthier future for all,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Together, these community-driven projects will improve the health, equity, and resilience of communities while setting a blueprint for local solutions that can be applied across the nation.”

Said Sen. Ed Markey, “The climate crisis isn’t just on our doorsteps, it is in our classrooms and our homes, and it doesn’t hit our communities equally from Boston to Springfield.” 

Additionally, Dorchester’s Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health (MassCOSH) has been selected to receive $150,000 for engaging, educating, and organizing Boston Public School (BPS) students through youth-led workshops held in classrooms, clubs, and after-school programs. Those funds will help influence repairs, renovations, and new construction in the school district by conducting a Health Impact Assessment based on project recommendations.