Medford, Other Communities Receive State Funding to Combat Youth Violence, Gangs

Governor Charlie Baker recently announced that the Shannon Grant program will receive a $1.25 million funding increase. According to information released by the Governor’s office, the funding is intended to support regional and multi-disciplinary approaches to combat gang and youth violence this summer.

“I am pleased that we are now able to increase our investment in these important programs as summer sets in to combat youth violence and gang activity that threatens public safety and access to opportunity in communities across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Baker. “These programs have delivered meaningful results and show the positive impact we can have when state and local partners join forces to tackle a serious and recurring problem such as youth violence.”

The Shannon Community Safety Initiative provides funding to communities that demonstrate high levels of youth violence and gang problems, a comprehensive plan to work with multi-disciplinary partners, and a commitment to coordinated prevention and intervention strategies.

The Metro Mayors Coalition, of which Medford is a member, is receiving $45,288. Other communities in the coalition include Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Quincy, Revere, Somerville, and Winthrop.

– InsideMedford.com