NEW YORK — For the second year in a row, community organizations in Manhattan will receive funding from parts of the Manhattan district attorney’s office to be used to pay youth to participate in public space improvement programs. This as a measure to prevent firearms violence in minors.
This was announced by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., noting that the office will award $20,000 to up to ten community organizations that will have the program in areas known for gun violence.
Funding will be awarded to community organizations that employ people with lived experience and provide hyperlocal programming in neighborhoods most affected by this type of violence, including Harlem, Washington Heights, Inwood, the Upper West Side and the Lower East Side. The call is available here.
“Combatting gun violence in our communities remains my top priority as district attorney, and that mission becomes even more important as we head into the summer months,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Prosecutions alone cannot solve our youth gun crisis – we need to engage at-risk young New Yorkers, meet them where they are, and provide them with positive ways to spend their time, earn money, and connect with their neighbors. We were inspired to see so many youth involved in positive programming this past summer and we look forward to building on that work. Please spread the word and encourage your local community organizations to apply!”
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office provides these awards through its Criminal Justice Investment Initiative, which was created using millions seized in the Office’s investigations against major banks.
The community organizations will each receive $20,000 to fund gun violence prevention stipends for young New Yorkers ages 14-26.
These organizations will pay stipends to at-risk young New Yorkers who will participate in meaningful, research-driven programming for three months. Programming can include cognitive behavioral therapy, restorative justice, civic engagement, community improvement projects, job training, education, and more.
Applicants may also propose to pay youth to complete a space improvement project that improves the design, functionality, or aesthetics of a public space where violence has recently occurred. For example, proposals could include planting a garden on a vacant lot or painting a mural promoting peace on a corner known for violence. Research shows that physical improvements in violent “hot spots” can lead to a reduction in gun violence.
Up to 10 organizations will receive awards for stipends and programming that will run from July 15, 2023 through October 15, 2023. Award recipients must commit to providing participants with warm referrals to programs that offer comprehensive support to the end of the three months of programming.
2023-04-26 16:09:52
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