COLUMBUS – Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther on Tuesday announced the city’s plan to allocate more than $20 million for summer programming aimed at reducing youth violence.
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Programs receiving financial support are primarily focused on violence prevention, jobs training and employment opportunities, and academic enrichment, all of which are designed to provide “safe, constructive venues for youth to learn, grow and develop during the summer months,” Ginther said.
“The pandemic is finally behind us, but its fallout continues to impact society – particularly our young people, who were disproportionately affected,” Ginther said. “We have a special obligation to continue making restorative investments in their health and well-being to ensure they have the skills, knowledge and experiences they need to succeed, both now and in the future.”
Nearly half of the $20.1 million in funding — $8.9 million — is being awarded to more than 90 community organizations that submitted funding requests review committee comprised of representatives from both the administration and Columbus City Council, –
City Council will vote on final approval of the allocations at its May 22 meeting.
These funds are in addition to $11.2 million that has already been approved for a number of summer programs, including the Teen and Police Service (TAPS) Academy, ReRoute, summer internships and partnerships with community organizations.