Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg Allocates $295,000 to Combat Youth Gun Violence Through Summer Programs
Today, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. announced the allocation of $295,000 to local organizations as part of his office’s efforts to address youth gun violence. The funding will support a range of summer programs aimed at tackling underlying factors contributing to the issue. This initiative marks the fourth consecutive summer that the District Attorney’s office has provided financial support to community groups working to involve and compensate young people in violence prevention efforts.
According to a statement from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, the funding will support initiatives such as career readiness and self-expression, among others. The funds are being distributed to eleven organizations, with two receiving $60,000 each and seven others awarded $25,000 each. These grants will enable groups like Emergent Works and Getting Out and Staying Out, among others, to offer specialized services to youth in neighborhoods known for their rich cultural diversity as well as challenging conditions, ranging from Washington Heights to the outskirts of NYCHA developments.
Touting a significant drop in shootings – "a 45% decline in shootings in Manhattan during my tenure," as stated by D.A. Bragg, the focus extends beyond the statistics. "Today's awards underscore our commitment to a vital part of that strategy: prevention," Bragg highlighted the continued partnership between the D.A.’s office and community organizations actively addressing the issue. Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine underscored the need to allocate resources to support the city’s youth as an essential component in combating gun violence, as reported by the Manhattan D.A.'s office.
The effort extends beyond local officials, with State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal using their legislative influence to restrict access to 3D-printed guns and gun parts. Rosenthal, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Housing, emphasized the severity of the issue, noting that gun violence is a leading cause of death among young people and adults. This highlights the urgent and comprehensive approach the city is taking amid limited federal intervention.
Funds allocated to local programs engaging young New Yorkers in summer activities originate from millions seized from major banks by the D.A.'s office. Through the Criminal Justice Investment Initiative (CJII), these resources are redirected into the community, moving from financial institutions to local programs aimed at reducing risks among youth.
