HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) recently announced the allocation of $56.5 million in state grants. This funding, distributed through the Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) grant program and the newly introduced Building Opportunity through Out of School Time (BOOST) program, aims to address the root causes of violence and provide enriching opportunities for young Pennsylvanians.
Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Kids should be able to focus on being kids – that’s why we made investments in our bipartisan budget to provide more learning opportunities for our students and to help prevent gun violence in the first place.” The Governor’s remarks highlight a commitment to ensuring that all Pennsylvanians can live without the fear of gun violence in their communities.
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, Chair of PCCD, added his insights on the significance of these programs. “I’m excited to announce that organizations can now apply for grant funding to combat violence and offer enriching afterschool learning opportunities in a safe and supportive setting for young people,” he stated. This comprehensive approach seeks to tackle the underlying issues contributing to community violence, focusing on prevention and intervention strategies.
The BOOST program allocates approximately $11.5 million to statewide and local projects aimed at at-risk school-age populations. Eligible entities, including school districts and community-based nonprofits, are encouraged to develop innovative out-of-school time programs. These initiatives go beyond traditional violence prevention, incorporating mentoring and career exploration to foster a supportive environment for youth.
Additionally, the VIP program will distribute $45 million to fund projects addressing community violence directly. This includes VIP Expansion/Enhancement Grants to support ongoing efforts and VIP Start-up Grants to assist grassroots organizations in establishing new programs. The Collaborative Community Violence Intervention (CCVI) Strategies Grants will further support local jurisdictions in developing and implementing violence reduction plans.
Pennsylvania has already seen positive results from its public safety investments, with a 16 percent reduction in homicides statewide in 2023, surpassing the national average. However, the state remains committed to further reducing firearm fatalities, which still claim over 1,600 lives annually.
The BOOST and VIP programs are designed to build on these successes by fostering a safer, more supportive environment for communities across the state. By addressing violence and enhancing educational opportunities, Pennsylvania aims to create a brighter future for its residents, particularly its youth.
Organizations interested in applying for these grants have until October 31, 2024, to submit their applications. Interested applicants can find more information on funding requirements and how to apply on PCCD’s Gun Violence Grants and Funding and Active Funding Announcements webpages.
PCCD has scheduled webinars to guide potential applicants through the process, ensuring that all eligible entities have the opportunity to participate in this pivotal initiative.
- BOOST webinar: October 2, 2024, at 3:00 PM. Register to attend.
- CCVI webinar: October 9, 2024, at 3:00 PM. Register to attend.
- VIP webinar: October 10, 2024, at 3:00 PM. Register to attend.
This investment represents a significant step forward in Pennsylvania’s efforts to prioritize community safety and youth development, reflecting a broader commitment to the well-being of its citizens.
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