New York State is allocating $20 million to expand an anti-violence initiative in 10 communities across the state, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday. The new funding will allow Project RISE: Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower to expand to three new locations — Hempstead, Troy and Utica –– and continue in Albany, Buffalo, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Rochester, Syracuse and Yonkers.

Community-based organizations will receive up to $2 million to implement and improve programs and services that increase opportunities for youth and families, build capacity of grassroots programs to expand their reach, and strengthen neighborhoods. Up to four lead organizations in each community will receive funding, retaining a portion for their programs and distributing the balance to support the work of other organizations.

“This investment addresses the root causes of gun violence by ensuring that communities that are disproportionately affected have the resources they need to heal and thrive,” Hochul said. “These programs provide our youth with avenues for growth, educational and career opportunities, and countless other supports and services.”

Project RISE funding supports mentoring, mental health services, restorative practices, community trust building, employment and education support and youth development activities, among other programs and services that address trauma resulting from long-term exposure to violence, build resilience and strengthen youth, families and neighborhoods.