WALSH ANNOUNCES FEDERAL FUNDING TO COMBAT YOUTH VIOLENCE IN CITY

(Syracuse, New York)- Congressman Jim Walsh today announced the awarding of a $300,000 grant to the Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility, Inc. by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Community Services, and will be used for the Model Neighborhood Facility's Violence Intervention and Prevention Program (VIPP).

This is the second round of federal funding recently received by the Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility. Last year, Congressman Walsh helped secure over $295,000 in Department of Justice funding for VIPP.

"Violence is a growing concern in our city, especially among youth," said Walsh. "I am proud that the federal government has been a partner in addressing the problem and facilitating proactive solutions like VIPP and Syracuse Middle School Choice."

The Violence Intervention and Prevention Program serves area youth who are especially at risk of being drawn into gang activity.  The program works to provide tailored programs to redirect their energy toward productive activity and to help them learn how to manage emotions and use problem solving skills to avoid violence.

"This funding from the Department of Health and Human Services is a major boost in the arm for the Syracuse Community in general and the VIPP strategy in particular," said Rev. Bill Lott, VIPP Director. "With this additional funding the Syracuse Model Neighborhood Facility will work with several non-traditional grass roots community and faith based organizations to expand their capacity and enhance their ability to contribute to the effort to stop violence by providing meaningful alternatives and resources for at risk youth."

Onondaga County District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick said, "I appreciate the efforts of Congressman Walsh in helping to continue the work of Rev. Lott and the VIPP program which is having a positive effect for the county."

Congressman Walsh is a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education.

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