Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant Program

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Grant Program, announced by the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia in partnership with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), aims to reduce violent crime and promote safe communities across the Eastern District of Virginia. The program's core mission aligns with the broader goal of enhancing public safety and improving the overall criminal justice system within the Commonwealth. DCJS, as the State Administrative Agency, is responsible for managing the coordination and distribution of these federal funds, ensuring that the grants support a comprehensive, collaborative, and community-based approach to violent crime reduction. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are the communities within the Eastern District of Virginia, particularly those with increased rates of violent crime and gang activity. The program specifically targets local and state law enforcement agencies, local and state governmental entities, educational institutions, and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations serving this district. The impact goals are centered on the reduction of gun violence and gang activity, leading to safer neighborhoods. Three regions—Richmond, Newport News, and Norfolk—will receive funding preference due to being most impacted by violent crime, though other cities with high violent crime rates will also be considered. The program prioritizes projects that enhance progress toward specific funding areas. These include Group Violence Intervention (GVI), which focuses on prevention and intervention through partnerships between law enforcement, local government, and the community, delivering credible moral messages against violence, and offering support to individuals. Another key area is Gun and Gang Crime Investigation/Suppression, which supports programs or task forces targeting perpetrators of gun and gang-related crimes, emphasizing multiagency cooperation. Firearms Analysis programs are also prioritized to enhance and support state and local law enforcement agencies in analyzing firearms and ballistic evidence, including NIBIN analysis and tracing. Finally, Prevention and Reentry Programs are crucial, dedicated to violent crime prevention, identifying high-risk individuals, and facilitating successful reentry of offenders through housing, educational, and vocational partnerships. The expected outcomes of the PSN Grant Program are a measurable reduction in violent crime, particularly gun violence and gang activity, and the promotion of safer communities throughout the Eastern District of Virginia. The program seeks to achieve these outcomes through the implementation of evidence-based strategies and collaborative efforts. The funding information indicates approximately $295,000 available for this solicitation, with applicants able to apply for funds between $25,000 and $200,000. Grants will be awarded for a twelve-month period, with a possible extension to 24 months based on demonstrated need, allowing for sustained efforts and the achievement of long-term impact in addressing violent crime.