INDIANAPOLIS — Acting United States Attorney John E. Childress recently announced that Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) federal grant dollars have been awarded to state and local government agencies for violent-crime reduction programs, which include community engagement, prevention and reentry efforts. PSN grants monies may be used for criminal justice-related initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contracted support, information systems, research and evaluation.
The City of Lawrence and the Lawrence Police Department were awarded $27,000 for an initiative called Laundry and More. Along with their community partners, Servants of Christ Lutheran Church, they are serving the area around 42nd Street and Post Rd. where the community has high crime but is also highly underserved. While the funding is directed at covering the cost of laundry services, it has also served as a mechanism to help law enforcement build relationships and start meaningful dialogue with citizens who typically are afraid to approach or even speak with an officer. Over 162 families have been served so far, with over 1,000 loads of laundry completed at no cost. People are also being connected with other resources in the area, such as jobs, food pantries, and civil servants.
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) was awarded $48,673 to help increase their level of participation with this public safety initiative. The RightFit programming allows officers to meet regularly with inner city youth participants and focus on building relationships. The after-school program encourages academic growth, fun physical activity, and a nutritious meal, which is all provided in an environment of courtesy and respect.
The following agencies were also awarded federal PSN grant money:
• City of Indianapolis – $30,500 for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design training program.
• Indiana Law Enforcement Academy – $8,473 for their Community Outreach Initiative.
• Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services – $93,378 for their Gun Crime Reduction Initiative.
• Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department – $188,394 for a PSN data enhancement program.