Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Forfeiture Funds

The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Forfeiture Fund was established pursuant to the Pennsylvania Controlled Substances Forfeiture Act and a legal settlement in Sourovelis v. City of Philadelphia. The fund is dedicated to supporting community-based anti-crime and anti-narcotics organizations operating in Philadelphia. Grants from this fund aim to engage at-risk youth and young adults in programs that prevent violence and addiction, assist with addiction recovery and rehabilitation, and facilitate reintegration and employment for formerly incarcerated individuals. Funding is available exclusively for organizations serving Philadelphia city and county residents. Grant recipients must use the funds for anti-crime, anti-drug, or anti-violence initiatives that align with guidance from the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office and the U.S. Department of Justice. A non-exhaustive list of permissible uses is provided to selected grantees. Priority is given to grassroots organizations with operating budgets under $1 million and those with demonstrated experience in delivering similar programming and financial management. Each grant cycle has a unique thematic focus. Grant amounts range from $10,000 to $50,000, with an average award of $25,000. Applications are evaluated based on their ability to engage individuals at risk of violence, promote protective factors, and provide culturally responsive services. Additional consideration is given to programs serving high-risk populations, including unemployed or underemployed adults in specific Philadelphia neighborhoods such as South, Southwest, and West Philadelphia, North Central and Eastern North Philadelphia (including Logan/Olney, Kensington, and River Wards). For 2025, the first grant cycle runs from February 3 to March 14 and is specifically designated for re-entry and workforce development programs that support job placement. Eligible organizations must demonstrate strong community ties, experience working with re-entry and marginalized individuals, and a commitment to culturally affirming services that address employment barriers. Applicants must submit an application along with required documents, including a 501(c)(3) IRS determination letter, a fiscal sponsorship agreement if applicable, a board-approved organizational budget for the current year, prior year financial statements, a list of the board of directors, and a board-approved nondiscrimination policy. The application can be downloaded online, and recipients will be required to submit a follow-up report upon receiving funding. The fund is administered by the Philadelphia Foundation. Inquiries can be directed to the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Forfeiture Fund at 1835 Market Street, Suite 2410, Philadelphia, PA 19103-2968. Contact information includes a phone number (215-563-6417) and an email option available through their website.