New York State Awards $2 Million Grant To Help Stop Gun Violence

Just days after New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a State of Emergency and war on gun violence, the New York State Office of Child and Family Services announces they are issuing grants to youth and community groups throughout the state to combat gun violence.

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According to a report by WKBW-TV, OFCS is receiving a $2 Million allocation from the Governor's Office to be distributed by counties to various groups.

We must seek every opportunity to stem gang activity and street violence that harms our children and families and tears apart the fabric of our communities. We need culturally relevant and locally designed alternatives that attract young people to activities which enrich them while allowing them to understand the positive contributions they can make to their neighborhoods and community. These grants will help spark new strategies based upon the input of youth and trusted community members.
-Sheila J. Poole, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Child and Family Services

Individual grants of up to $50,000 will be available to groups that offer programs in different areas like STEAM, sports, youth leadership, civic engagement, restorative justice, and more. Groups will be required to expand their services and extend their hours on weekends and other times where the likelihood of gun violence increases.

These grants will be available in 17 counties in New York with Erie, Niagara, and Chautauqua counties being included in this list.

No word has been released about the application process yet, however, that information should be forthcoming soon. More information may be available from the local county youth bureau since they will manage the funds.