Safer Streets: Governor Hochul Announces $20 Million for Community-Based Organizations Providing Youth Services and Support in 10 Communities Statewide

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $20 million in state funding for community-based organizations that provide services and support to young people in 10 municipalities across the state: Albany, Buffalo, Hempstead, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Rochester, Syracuse, Troy, Utica, and Yonkers. The investment through Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower) supports a total of 136 programs and services that strengthen youth development and mental health, increase economic and educational opportunities for young people, and address the underlying causes of violence and improve the community's response. Each community receives $2 million, which supports established organizations and smaller, grassroots programs that traditionally have not received state funding for their impactful work.

"Every young person deserves to grow up with people who believe in them, places where they feel safe and real opportunities to build a successful future," Governor Hochul said. "Project RISE puts resources directly into communities, supporting trusted local organizations that know their young people and understand what it takes to help them thrive. By expanding opportunity and reaching young New Yorkers before they encounter the justice system, we are changing lives and building safer communities for generations to come."

Administered by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), the initiative supports a wide range of programs, including mentoring, mental health services, restorative practices, the arts, athletics, financial literacy, job training, and educational support that breaks down barriers to higher education and careers, among others. Project RISE also supports organizations that help youth and families build resilience and address grief and trauma resulting from long-term exposure to violence.

Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, "Public safety is strengthened when young people have a strong network of support and a clear sense of what is possible for their future. Project RISE helps build that foundation by connecting youth and families with mentors, mental health services, education, employment, and other opportunities that can change the course of a life. Governor Hochul understands that this work requires sustained commitment, and we are proud to help carry that vision forward."

Project RISE-funded organizations offered nearly 1,600 programs and events, serving slightly more than 113,000 participants, during the July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, funding cycle. This marks the fourth round of RISE funding for seven communities (Albany, Buffalo, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Rochester, Syracuse, Yonkers) and second round for Hempstead, Troy, and Utica.

The initiative is part of Governor Hochul's comprehensive approach to improving public safety by investing in prevention, intervention, and enforcement. Since taking office, the Governor has invested nearly $4 billion, providing record-level support for law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations on the front lines of reducing crime and gun violence.

DCJS used a data-driven approach to identify the initial locations and expand the initiative, analyzing demographics and poverty data for each city as outlined in the American Community Survey; and violent crime and shooting data reported to the state by each municipality's police department. In addition to administering funding, DCJS provides training and technical assistance, and evaluates programs to ensure accountability and impact.

The innovative Project RISE funding model drives investments in programs and services that are tailored to meet the unique needs and priorities identified by youth, families, and other stakeholders in the participating communities. Each Project RISE community has a steering committee, which decides where the $2 million investment will pay the greatest dividends for youth and families and strengthen neighborhoods.

Steering committees use a healing and equity lens to foster ongoing collaboration; identify programs and services for funding; build capacity to implement and sustain programming to address the underlying factors contributing to violence; and improve responses to violence through partnerships. Up to four lead organizations in each community receive the funding, retaining a portion for their programs and distributing the balance to support the work of other organizations, many of which hadn't previously received state funding. This allows RISE funding to build the capacity of successful grassroots programs to expand their reach.

The Division of Criminal Justice Services provides critical support to all facets of the state's criminal justice system, including, but not limited to: training law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; overseeing a law enforcement accreditation program; ensuring Breathalyzer and speed enforcement equipment used by local law enforcement operate correctly; managing criminal justice grant funding; analyzing statewide crime and program data; providing research support; overseeing county probation departments and alternatives to incarceration programs; and coordinating youth justice policy. Follow DCJS on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, "Across New York, we have seen that investing in our young people pays off in safer, stronger communities, which is exactly what Project RISE works to do statewide. In my district, this $2 million investment lets organizations like the Yonkers PAL, Yonkers YMCA, and Westhab Inc. do what they do best - mentor our young people, connect them to the arts and athletics, and open doors to opportunity. These organizations will also distribute portions of these funds to community groups like Brother 2 Brother, 914United, Yonkers Arts, and One Paso. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her continued partnership and leadership on public safety, and for recognizing that investing in our young people is one of the most effective ways to build safer communities across New York."

State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey said, "Investing in our youth is one of the most effective ways to break cycles of violence and build safer, stronger communities across New York. By expanding access to mentorship, mental health support, job training, and educational opportunities, this investment ensures that the youth of New York, and those in my district in Mount Vernon, have the support system and resources needed to reach their full potential. I thank Governor Hochul, Commissioner of DCJS Rossana Rosado, and our vast network of community partners across the state for their continued commitment to Project RISE, investing in our communities, and their work to secure a brighter future for our young people."

State Senator Shelley Mayer said, "I am pleased that Governor Hochul and New York State continue to invest in our young people and in programs that successfully combat violence in our communities. Through this grant, we are investing in successful efforts targeted at young people in Yonkers that have already resulted in declining rates of violence and a safer city. I thank Governor Hochul for directing Project RISE funding to Yonkers, and to cities across the state, wisely investing in our young people and supporting data-proven approaches to make our communities safer and more secure for all."

State Senator Rachel May said, "Curbing violence requires a comprehensive approach and cooperation from many stakeholders. Project Rise funding will support this effort by providing critical resources to organizations and mentors working to prevent violence in our communities. Thank you to Governor Hochul for focusing on this issue and providing the resources needed to make a difference."

State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, "With this investment of $2 million for programs in the City of Rochester, community groups can better address youth services in the community. I applaud Governor Hochul for prioritizing youth mental health and development, which is crucial for helping our next generation thrive."

State Senator Christopher J. Ryan said, "Public safety starts with making sure our law enforcement officers have the resources and support they need to keep our streets safe, but it also means preventing crime before it happens. Project RISE gives our communities the tools to reach young people, keep them on a positive path, and address the factors that can lead to violence. When we combine strong law enforcement with meaningful opportunities for our young people, we are taking a comprehensive approach to safer neighborhoods and stronger communities. That is an investment in public safety that benefits everyone."

State Senator April N.M. Baskin said, "Buffalo has seen meaningful decreases in gun violence in recent years, and investments like Project RISE are an important part of a comprehensive approach to making our communities safer. If we want to keep that progress going, we have to continue investing in our young people and giving them opportunities to learn, grow, and build a future. I thank Governor Hochul for this $2 million investment in Buffalo and for recognizing the important role community organizations play in keeping our neighborhoods safe."

State Senator Siela Bynoe said, "Hempstead is home to many talented and resilient young people who deserve access to quality mentorship, mental health support, and educational programs that help them optimize their development. The $2 million investment from Project RISE will enable community-based organizations to provide meaningful support and create new opportunities and experiences. By offering our children the care, guidance, and support they need from an early age, we have the chance to pave a brighter path for them to follow. Investing in our youth is one of the most important ways to strengthen our communities."

State Senator Patricia Fahy said, "Investing in evidence-based solutions to gun violence that interrupt cycles of violence on the ground in our communities is how we address its root causes. Neighborhoods on the frontlines of gun violence on our streets know that we need a multipronged approach, which includes investing in meaningful opportunities for young people, providing hope, and programs that meet people where they are. Thank you to Governor Hochul for again recognizing the importance of leading with science-based approaches and solutions that will make a difference here in Albany and across the state."

Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, "Our Governor, Kathy Hochul, is making it clear in word and in deed, her commitment to addressing violence in our communities. Part of that commitment is investing in our youth by strengthening youth development and mental health services and giving our young people opportunities for economic advancement."

Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, "With the implementation and expansion of Project Rise and other community-based initiatives, Rochester has seen a persistent and marked decrease of violence at all levels. These approaches offer one of our most effective resources for addressing the root cause to prevent instances of crime and violence. We still have work to do and I thank Governor Hochul for partnering with the Greater Rochester area to address public safety. The $2 million dollar investment in Project Rise will contribute to efforts that are making our streets safer, transforming neighborhoods and lives, and giving young people better opportunities and alternatives."

Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh said, "As a former mayor, I appreciate programs like Project RISE that take an evidence-based approach to making our communities safer. Bringing community stakeholders together at the local level around a shared vision for a safer community is at the heart of the RISE program. I am pleased to support this effort now in its fourth year, because the resources we provide are making a real difference in communities across New York State."

Assemblymember Pamela J. Hunter said, "Keeping our communities safe means investing not only in law enforcement, but in the young people, families and neighborhood organizations doing the work of prevention every day. Project RISE gives trusted local organizations in Syracuse the resources to expand opportunity, support young people, address trauma and help prevent violence before it occurs. I thank Governor Hochul for continuing to recognize that strong, safe communities are built through sustained investment in people."

Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson said, "Local programs that offer support and opportunities for youth are a powerful first step toward improving generational outcomes and building stronger communities. RISE funding has supported organizations doing this work in Newburgh for a few years now, and it's making a difference. I'm grateful for the Governor's continued commitment to this grant program, and for prioritizing programming designed to lift up kids and put them on a pathway to success."

Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon said, "As gun violence remains a major concern in our communities, particularly violence involving our youth, I appreciate the Governor's commitment to further supporting our gun violence prevention efforts here in the Mohawk Valley. As I have stated before, my number one priority has and continues to be combatting illegal gun use by our youth and young adults, as well as targeting those adult criminals who exploit and manipulate our children into committing these tragic acts of violence, and will continue to support our first responders, law enforcement personnel, and the members of our communities leading this fight."

Assemblymember Sarah Clark said,

"Project RISE remains an important investment in the prevention and intervention strategies that help communities address the factors that can contribute to violence. By supporting mentorship, workforce development, educational opportunities, mental health services, and programs that build stability for young people and families, this funding gives Rochester organizations the resources and autonomy to address challenges at the local level. This will be the fourth round of RISE funding for Rochester, and I look forward to building on the impressive results already achieved. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to strengthening public safety by investing in both effective community based solutions and the organizations working every day to make our neighborhoods safer."

Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky said, "I thank Governor Hochul for recognizing the importance of Project RISE and for continuing to invest in the community organizations that know our young people best. This funding will enable more Yonkers youth to connect with mentors, mental health resources, educational opportunities, job training, and other critical supports. It is an investment that will help strengthen families, expand opportunity, and build safer, healthier neighborhoods."

Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero said,

"True public safety requires investing deeply in community resources. I'm proud to see Albany receive this critical funding through Project RISE, which puts funding in the hands of the community-based organizations and grassroots leaders."

City of Albany Mayor Dr. Dorcey Applyrs said, "Our communities see safer streets when we pair effective law enforcement with meaningful investments in prevention, opportunity, and lifting up our young people. This $2 million investment will put critical resources directly in the hands of trusted Albany organizations who already do this work in our neighborhoods. I thank Governor Hochul and Commissioner Rosado for this investment, and for recognizing that a safer city requires all aspects of our community to work together and address the root causes of violence. We must give our young people every opportunity possible to succeed."

City of Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello said, "This is a tremendous investment in Troy's youth and our community's future. Through Project RISE, we can continue expanding the resources, opportunities, and positive outreach available to our young people. Our goal is to make sure every young person knows they have a path forward - one that leads to opportunity, success, and a brighter future, rather than getting involved in illegal activities. This funding strengthens our ability to meet young people where they are, provide meaningful alternatives, and uplift families across our city."

City of Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano said, "Thank you to Governor Hochul for investing in the young people of Yonkers and giving our community the resources to help them succeed. This $2 million in Project RISE funding will strengthen the work already happening across Yonkers, from youth mentorship and opportunity programs to the Yonkers Police Department's Youth Police Initiative and community outreach efforts. Together, we're giving our young people the support, guidance and opportunities they need to succeed and build a brighter future."

City of Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard said, "Strong communities are built when we invest in our young people before they reach a moment of crisis. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for once again investing $2 million in Mount Vernon through Project RISE and for recognizing the importance of sustaining this critical work year after year. This investment will strengthen the organizations on the front lines, create opportunities for our young people, and advance prevention, intervention and restorative practices that address the root causes of violence. We look forward to continuing this sustained work alongside our community partners. When state and local government work together with community, we don't just respond to challenges, we create the conditions for our young people, our families and our city to thrive."

City of Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey said, "Thank you to Governor Hochul for continuing to invest in Newburgh, our young people, and the future. This $2 million investment will strengthen trusted community organizations, create more opportunities for our youth and help address the root causes of violence. Together, we are building a stronger, safer Newburgh."

City of Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, "By focusing on youth development, mental health and community empowerment, the initiatives under Project RISE create opportunities to break the cycles of disputes, retaliation and incarceration that perpetuate generational trauma and violent crime. I want to thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued investments in crime reduction and helping Rochester's young people reach their full potential."

City of Utica Mayor Michael P. Galime said, "Project RISE has proven to fund organizations committed to strengthening community networks that have a pulse on engaging youth, and preventing violence through positive programming and engagement. On behalf of Utica, many thanks are extended to the Governor's office for supporting this initiative."