Erie County is trying to reduce gun violence by participating in a statewide program called Safe Summer New York.

The county’s Youth Bureau received $130,000 to participate in the program.

It supports positive youth activities by getting at-risk 14- to 24-year-olds involved.

“We have seen an increase in violence across our community in 2021 and this grant will be helpful in getting young people away from situations where gun violence happens,” said Commissioner of Social Service Marie A. Cannon. “By providing youth engagement activities at times when youth are more likely to congregate and potentially get into trouble we can help to keep that trouble from happening.”

A $2 million state investment provides grants for high gun violence neighborhoods throughout New York.

This funding will allow Erie County’s Youth Bureau to help local organizations develop activities for extended hours and weekends.

The Safe Summer NY 2021 initiative will have a local focus on zip codes 14201, 14202, 14206, 14207, 14209, 14210, 14211, 14212, 14215, 14216 and 14222.