Preventative Awards Build on Fifth Straight Year of Double-Digit Shooting Declines in Manhattan
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr., today announced that the Office will award a total of $300,000 to 10 different community-based organizations to fund youth gun violence prevention initiatives this summer. For the fifth consecutive summer, the Office’s funding will provide community-based organizations the ability to compensate young New Yorkers for engaging in meaningful programs — including career readiness, self-expression, and community activation — intended to address the root causes of youth gun violence.
The recipients include:
Avenues for Justice, Getting Out and Staying Out, Goddard Riverside Community Center, Harlem Mothers & Fathers S.A.V.E., Harlem School of the Arts, Living Redemption Community Development Corporation, Muslim Community Network, Not Another Child, SCAN Harbor, Wheelchairs Against Guns.
Since the launch of the program in 2022, more than 560 young people throughout Manhattan have been served by over 20 organizations. Past years programs have encouraged youth to reflect on personal and community experiences with gun violence through content creation, connected young people with career specialists and potential employers across the city, cultivated projects to build supportive relationships between the youth and the community, and more.
Organizations receiving the award will provide hyperlocal services to young people living in Washington Heights/Inwood, Harlem/East Harlem, the Lower East Side, and in or around NYCHA developments including Amsterdam Houses, Saint Nicholas Houses, Johnson Houses, Wagner Houses, and Hamilton Houses.
Programming will kick off on June 29th and run through the summer, ending on September 4th.
“Our Gun Violence Prevention Initiative has served hundreds of young people who are at risk or have experienced gun violence since its launch in 2022,” said Manhattan District Attorney Bragg. “I am proud of the young New Yorkers who are taking steps towards personal and professional growth and cultivating positive relationships within their communities. In Manhattan, shootings are down 60% from when I first took office due in part to collaboration with the community-based organizations dedicated to engaging with our youth. This funding represents our commitment to driving down gun violence and engaging directly with our neighbors to build trust and a safer Manhattan.”
This announcement marks the start of the start of Gun Violence Awareness Month, where the Office will hold a series of community events and initiatives as part of its broader strategy to reduce gun violence, which has contributed to significant reductions in shootings and homicides under D.A. Bragg’s administration.
As of May 24, 2026, the borough has seen a 64% decrease in homicides and 60% decrease in shootings compared to 2021– the year before D.A. Bragg took office.
On June 5th, the Office will recognize Gun Violence Awareness Day by wearing orange and standing together for a staff photo in solidarity with survivors and impacted communities.
On June 13th, the Office, in partnership with the New York City Police Department (NYPD), elected officials and community partners, will host a citywide gun buyback at Central Baptist Church on the Upper West Side. More information can be found here, with a Spanish language version available here.
On June 25th, Prosecutors Against Gun Violence (PAGV), co-chaired by D.A. Bragg and Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein, will host a webinar on the widening threat of 3D-printed firearms featuring experts from Everytown and other organizations.
This year, the Office successfully advocated for the passage of a law in Albany that requires 3D-printer manufacturers to implement technology that automatically detects and blocks the printing of these weapons when their products are sold in New York.
“Summer in Manhattan should mean pool days, ice cream, and time with friends — not the threat of gun violence. I’m grateful to District Attorney Alvin Bragg for investing $300,000 in 10 community organizations working to keep young people safe, supported, and engaged this summer. By investing in youth programs and addressing the root causes of violence, this initiative will help build safer communities across our borough.” – Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal.
State Senator Cordell Cleare, Co-Chair of the NYSABPRHAL Gun Violence Prevention Subcommittee stated: “I applaud Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s announcement that his Office will support 10 different community-based organizations to fund youth gun violence prevention initiatives this summer. Gun violence is a severe public health crisis, which has too many of us living with the fear of being caught in crossfire or losing loved ones to stray bullets. We must put an end to this epidemic, with vigilance, policy and legislation, and collaborations with trusted community organizations.”
“I commend District Attorney Bragg and his office for recognizing that true public safety begins long before violence takes root,” said State Senator Robert Jackson. “Too many of our young people are growing up in systems that invest more in punishment after pain than in opportunity before crisis. These investments in mentorship, creative expression, career readiness, and community-based summer programming reflect a deeper understanding of what safety truly means. When we invest in young people, we are not simply preventing violence — we are protecting futures, restoring hope, and affirming that every child deserves the chance to dream beyond survival.”
“I applaud DA Bragg’s recognition that a key strategy to address the problem of gun violence in our community is early intervention. We need collaboration between everyone in our community to address the problems that underlie gun violence, and to help young people learn alternatives to conflict resolution as well as maintaining public spaces that become hot spots for illegal activity. I look forward to our ongoing work together to make our borough and our City even safer through novel solutions that empower young people in our neighborhoods,” said Assemblymember Harvey Epstein.
“Investing in our youth is one of the most important investments a community can make. These programs don’t just keep our kids off the street, they engage them, they train them, they pay them, and they set them up with the skills they need for the future. I want to thank DA Bragg for continuing the Summer Gun Violence Prevention program and focusing on long standing organizations in the community with records of success.” – Assemblymember Edward Gibbs.
“Keeping our neighborhoods safe means providing our young people with constructive opportunities to learn, grow, and earn,” said Assemblymember Grace Lee. “By delivering hyperlocal funding to community-based organizations, including on the Lower East Side, this initiative tackles youth gun violence before it starts. I am grateful to District Attorney Bragg for his steadfast leadership in championing these grassroots programs that protect our communities and uplift our youth.”
“As the representative of the 71st Assembly District, I know all too well the pain and trauma gun violence continues to inflict on our communities. Too many of our young people have grown up surrounded by violence, instability, and limited opportunity. That is why investments like these are so important. Preventing gun violence is not only about enforcement, it is about creating pathways, building trust, and ensuring our youth have access to safe spaces, mentorship, creative expression, and meaningful opportunities throughout the summer months. I commend District Attorney Alvin Bragg and all of the community-based organizations receiving this support for continuing to do the difficult and necessary work of reaching our young people before violence reaches them. When we invest in our youth, we invest in safer communities, stronger neighborhoods, and a more hopeful future for all New Yorkers.” – Assemblymember Al Taylor.
“Building safer communities begins with investing in our young people and ensuring they have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. By expanding access to mentorship, career development, the arts, and positive community programs, we are addressing the root causes of violence and creating pathways toward success. I commend District Attorney Bragg for his continued investment in community-based solutions and the organizations working every day to uplift and empower our youth. These initiatives send a powerful message to young people across our city, that their lives matter, their futures matter, and we are committed to investing in their potential,” said Assemblymember Manny De Los Santos.
“I want to thank Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg for his continued commitment to combating youth gun violence through this important initiative. Investing in community-based organizations that provide young people with meaningful opportunities and support is critical to building safer neighborhoods. This is a very important public safety issue that has demanded our attention because of its profound impact on families across Manhattan. Programs that address the root causes of violence through career readiness, self-expression, and community engagement can make a real difference in the lives of young people and help prevent future violence. I commend the organizations receiving these awards for the essential work they do every day to support our youth and strengthen our communities.” – Council Member Yusef Salaam.
“The horror of gun violence reverberates through communities, creating trauma, hurt, and unease. Too many have been devastated across generations,” said Council Member Gale A. Brewer. “I commend District Attorney Bragg for his continued focus on gun violence prevention and continuing to provide grants for meaningful outreach and programs.”
“As federal support for our communities continues to shrink, young people in our NYCHA developments and across District 8 are bearing the cost. That’s why DA Bragg’s investment in youth gun violence prevention is so significant, and why I am proud to support this work. The programs receiving this funding get ahead of violence by connecting young people with career development, mentorship, and pathways to a real future. By providing a genuine alternative, this investment will save lives. I thank DA Bragg for standing with us in the fight to get our young people every resource they deserve.” – Council Member Elsie Encarnación.
The Manhattan D.A.’s Office is providing these awards through asset forfeiture funds seized in the Office’s investigations against major banks.
The Award Recipients
Avenues for Justice (Lower East Side)
This program will use music, storytelling, and cognitive behavioral exercises to help youth identify trauma and explore alternative expressions of emotion. Programming will conclude with a facilitated discussion on growth, accountability, and commitments for the future.
“We are incredibly excited and honored for Avenues for Justice (AFJ) to be selected to move forward in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Criminal Justice Investment Initiative. This opportunity represents a powerful investment in court advocacy and alternative to incarceration services AFJ provides to NYC’s young people. This initiative will strengthen AFJ’s ability to provide meaningful, youth-centered summer programming that directly addresses gun violence prevention through engagement, mentorship, and skill-building. It allows us to expand access to safe spaces, deepen our impact during a critical time of year when young people are out of school and need positive pathways to employment and supportive resources. We look forward to partnering in this important work and are confident that this initiative will further our shared goal of empowering youth with prevention tools and public safety mechanisms.” – Gamal Willis, Chief Program Officer of Avenues for Justice.
Getting Out and Staying Out “GOSO” (East Harlem)
Youth participants will work with career service specialists to practice workplace skills and prepare for job searches as well as be placed in high-demand internships with opportunities for post-internship hiring.
“The Manhattan DA’s Criminal Justice Investment Initiative recognizes what GOSO has always known: young people in East Harlem have the drive and talent to succeed. We are grateful for the Manhattan District Attorney’s Criminal Justice Investment Initiative award, which will help ensure that more young people at Getting Out and Staying Out can access jobs that put them on a path toward brighter futures. This funding will provide participants ages 16–24 with access to workshops led by our Career Services team focused on career planning, resume and cover letter development, and job search skills. Once prepared, participants will have access to paid internship placements through our network of employer partners, exposing them to high-demand industries and opportunities for permanent employment. Participants will also continue to receive GOSO’s education, counseling, housing, and benefits support throughout the process.
The DA’s continued investment in organizations deeply rooted in their communities is creating positive outcomes for New York City’s young people and contributing to stronger public safety. GOSO is thankful for the opportunity to help participants access workforce opportunities this summer and beyond.” – Michelle Pryce-Screen, President and CEO of Getting Out Staying Out.
Goddard Riverside Community Center (Amsterdam Houses, Upper West Side)
Youth will be given responsibilities within summer basketball tournaments and will participate in the Creating Opportunities for Amsterdam and Teen Expansion program.
“We are incredibly appreciative of the Gun Violence Prevention Initiative, which gives young people at our Lincoln Square Neighborhood Center opportunities to strengthen the fabric of their community and provide positive activities for their peers. Safety isn’t just about the absence of violence; it’s about the presence of peace and connectedness with other people. The whole community benefits from this program.” – Roderick L. Jones, President of Goddard Riverside.
Harlem Mothers & Fathers S.A.V.E. (Saint Nicholas Houses, Harlem)
This initiative will engage youth in leadership development, creative expression, and neighborhood engagement. Participants will paint a community mural, operate weekly playstreets for younger children, and take part in workshops.
“Harlem Mothers & Fathers S.A.V.E. was built by mothers who know the pain of losing a child to gun violence, and we refuse to let another family feel that hurt. With this support from DA Bragg’s office, our young people have real opportunities to grow, to lead, and to pour love back into their community. That’s how we save lives, by giving our kids hope and a purpose.” – Jackie Rowe‑Adams, Co‑Founder of Harlem Mothers & Fathers S.A.V.E.
Harlem School of the Arts (Harlem)
This program will promote personal growth by engaging participants in planning for college and career exploration, workplace readiness, financial literacy, collaborative projects, and more.
“At HSA, we’ve always believed that creative youth development is community safety work,” noted James C. Horton, HSA’s president & CEO. “This initiative reflects exactly that — giving young people structured pathways for self-expression, career readiness, and community connection. We’re proud to stand alongside District Attorney Bragg’s office in making that investment.”
Living Redemption Community Development Corporation (Harlem)
Youth will learn to plan and organize a 6-week basketball tournament. Participants will be responsible for marketing and recruitment, securing sponsors, scorekeeping, photography, podcasting, and more.
“Real change happens when communities are trusted to lead. The GVPI allows us to deepen a model that is youth focused, family centered, and community driven because saving lives and healing communities begins with relationships built on trust, consistency, and care.” – Dorin Hammond, Deputy Director of Living Redemption Community Development Corporation.
Muslim Community Network (Harlem)
Focused on career readiness, this program will engage youth in resume and cover letter workshops and mock interviews with corporate partners, as well as participation in civic engagement workshops and staffing voter registration tables.
“Muslim Community Network is proud to receive this grant from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for the second time. This investment affirms what MCN has long known: that the most effective response to gun violence is rooted in community, culture, and trust. With this funding, we are able to reach young New Yorkers who are too often overlooked and offer them programming that builds belonging, purpose, and safety. We are grateful to DA Bragg for his commitment to community-based solutions and for recognizing that prevention starts with people.” – Husein Yatabarry, Executive Director of Muslim Community Network.
Not Another Child (East Harlem)
Youth will participate in workshops covering interpersonal relationships, decision making, conflict mediation, social awareness, and more. The program will also provide field experiences that will expose youth to cultural and recreational activities and civic engagement opportunities, including volunteering at a multi-state basketball tournament to raise awareness about gun violence.
“This grant represents more than support for programming. It represents belief in communities that have too often been counted out. Every dollar invested into prevention, mentorship, leadership development, and credible community engagement helps save lives before violence occurs. Through this partnership specifically we have created a pipeline for youth to have entry points into pathways that shape their future for better outcomes. We are grateful to the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for partnering with organizations rooted in the community and committed to producing real results for our young people and families.” – Justin Napper, Director of Youth and Young Adult Services.
SCAN Harbor (Johnson Houses, East Harlem)
This program will provide mentorship, skill building, and positive peer networks, engaging them in internships and group experiences.
“SCAN-Harbor is gratified to receive Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s meaningful support of our East Harlem/Harlem young people. DA Bragg’s office has been critical partners in our communities significantly positive progress in positively addressing youth violence in our community.” – Lew Zuchman, Executive Director of SCAN Harbor.
Wheelchairs Against Guns (Washington Heights and Inwood)
Youth will participate in community walks, peer-led discussions about safety, neighborhood improvement projects, and leadership workshops.
“Our “Me, We, Us” strategy promotes accountability, problem-solving, and community impact. “Me” means taking personal responsibility for one’s actions and behavior. “We” focuses on working together to identify positive solutions and corrective strategies. “Us” represents sharing and spreading those solutions throughout the community to create lasting change and collective growth.” – Jamar Green, Program Manager of Wheelchairs Against Guns.
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