Erie County Times

Senator Dan Laughlin has announced the approval of $4.2 million in grant funding aimed at enhancing community safety and youth development initiatives in Erie. These grants, authorized by the School Safety and Security Committee, are part of the Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) and Building Opportunity through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) programs.

“I am incredibly proud of the work being done in Erie to support our youth and ensure the safety and well-being of our community,” stated Laughlin. He emphasized that these grants highlight effective collaboration among law enforcement, schools, community organizations, and local leaders to tackle challenges while laying a stronger foundation for the future.

The Pennsylvania State Alliance of YMCAs is set to receive $1.5 million to enhance after-school and summer programs at local YMCAs. This initiative aims to promote academic improvement and decrease juvenile crime rates for over 15,800 at-risk youths.

Similarly, the Pennsylvania Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs will also receive $1.5 million. The funds are intended to expand out-of-school services that encourage academic growth, social-emotional development, reduced negative behaviors, and safe environments for at-risk youth.

The City of Erie has been awarded $950,000 in VIP funding. This allocation will support five officers within the juvenile unit and crisis care section of the Erie Police Department. These specialized units focus on issues such as mental health crises, substance use disorders, homelessness, gun violence, and domestic violence. Collaborating with Erie’s public schools and juvenile probation services allows this unit to help at-risk youth access essential programs that foster success while reducing their chances of entering the justice system.

Additionally, the Erie Police Athletic League received $250,000 in BOOST funding to finance three full-time youth officer salaries. These officers will coordinate tutoring sessions, mentoring programs, summer camps, educational field trips, and recreational activities across 24 locations for 1,700 students in Erie.

For further details on VIP and BOOST grants: visit www.pa.gov/agencies/pccd/programs-and-services/reducing-gun-violence/gun-violence-grants-and-funding.html