City of Savannah Violence Reduction Program Grant Program

The City of Savannah is offering 2025 Violence Reduction Program Grants, an initiative aimed at safeguarding young people by keeping them out of jail and ensuring their safety at home, school, or the workplace. This grant program is a direct reflection of the City of Savannah's commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its youth, recognizing them as one of the community's most valuable assets. The Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) is the driving force behind this funding, making resources available to community programs, services, and initiatives that specifically focus on reducing gun violence among the city's youth and young adults. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are Savannah’s youth and young adults, with a specific focus on individuals aged 12 to 25. This demographic is targeted because they have been, or are identified as being, at risk of involvement in gun and other forms of violence. The overarching impact goal is to significantly reduce gun violence and negative behaviors within this vulnerable population and the broader community. The program seeks to empower organizations to create a safer environment for these young individuals, fostering their development and steering them away from violent tendencies. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined. Funding will support projects that are realistic, well-planned, and implemented within Savannah, Georgia, directly benefiting its residents. Projects must also have measurable performance goals that can be reported to both the City and the community, ensuring accountability and transparency. Furthermore, successful initiatives are expected to result in tangible outcomes that reduce gun and other violence, as well as negative behaviors among participants or within a clearly defined community or geographic area. Projects must address one or more of the following service continuum needs: Prevention, Intervention, Redirection, and Progression. This comprehensive approach ensures that various stages of engagement with at-risk youth are covered. Eligibility criteria stipulate that entities submitting proposals must be legally formed not-for-profit organizations registered in the state of Georgia, able to provide proof of their legal formation. They must also be located within Savannah's corporate city limits and provide services directly benefiting Savannah, Georgia residents. The maximum award for proposals is up to $50,000 for allowable expenses, demonstrating a significant investment in community-led violence reduction efforts.