HARRISBURG, PA — State officials have approved more than $65 million in grants aimed at reducing violence and expanding after-school programs for at-risk youth across Pennsylvania.
What This Means for You
- $65 million will fund violence prevention and youth programs statewide
- Grants target high-risk communities and at-risk youth populations
- Demand for funding continues to exceed available resources
The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency approved 177 projects through its Violence Intervention and Prevention and Building Opportunities through Out-of-School Time programs, supporting community-based safety efforts and youth engagement initiatives.
The funding includes 148 violence prevention grants and 29 BOOST projects focused on expanding structured activities for young people outside of school hours.
Focus on Community Safety
Violence Intervention and Prevention funding supports programs such as street outreach, workforce development for returning citizens, victim services, and hospital-based violence intervention efforts.
BOOST grants, introduced in the 2024–25 fiscal year, fund mentoring, summer programs, and enrichment activities designed to keep young people engaged and reduce exposure to violence.
“Thanks to the investments we’ve made over the past three years, we’re seeing real progress in reducing violence and increasing opportunities for young people across Pennsylvania,” said Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, who chairs the commission.
Declining Crime Trends
State officials cited recent data showing declines in violent crime, including a 40 percent reduction in firearm-related offenses, a 35 percent decrease in homicides, and a 26 percent drop in assaults.
The data comes from Uniform Crime Reporting, a national system used to track crime statistics.
Growing Demand for Funding
Applications for the latest round of funding far exceeded available resources.
The commission received 464 applications totaling more than $158,000,000, representing organizations across 44 counties. More than three-quarters of applicants sought funding for youth-focused prevention programs.
Officials said projects were prioritized based on community need and potential impact, particularly in areas with higher rates of violence.
Next Steps
State leaders have proposed increasing funding for the program by $5,200,000 in the 2026–27 budget, which would bring total investment to more than $68,000,000.
Since the 2023–24 fiscal year, the commission has approved 354 projects totaling approximately $162,000,000 to support violence reduction and youth development efforts across Pennsylvania.
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