In Advance Of National Night Out, Senate Deputy Leader Gianaris Announces $58,000 In State Funding For Anti-Violence Programs In Queens

LONG ISLAND CITY, N.Y. – Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris joined residents and community leaders to announce $58,000 in funding for anti-violence programs during Queensbridge Houses Family Day. The funding will support anti-violence programs in NYCHA developments administered by the Jacob Riis Neighborhood Settlement House.

“We must keep our communities safe from the scourge of gun violence. While I successfully fought for new laws to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals, we can never do enough to prevent tragedies from occurring,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “I am pleased to secure $58,000 in this year’s state budget to take guns off our streets.”  

“Riis Settlement is proud and honored to receive this vital funding for continued anti-violence work in the NYCHA developments of western Queens. Community safety is the cornerstone on which lively, thriving, and healthy neighborhoods are build and we thank Senator Gianaris for allowing us the opportunity to partner with community residents in this important work,” said Christopher Hanway, Riis Settlement Executive Director.  

“Senator Gianaris announcement of securing $58, 000 funding to get guns off the street and stopping violence in our community is great,” said April Simpson, Queensbridge Houses Tenant Association President. “This is also true to what National Night Out Against Crime symbolizes, Community Partnerships that uplifts, engages, and unites us to stand together against crime, and crimes committed in our communities.”

Senator Gianaris has a lengthy record of leadership on issues of gun safety. Just last week, New York State enacted his legislation creating a 30-day background check waiting period.

Senator Gianaris successfully advocated for increased funding for community priorities in this year’s state budget, including $30,000 for the Gantry Parent Association, $13,000 for Sunnyside Community Services, $13,000 for Hunters Point Middle School, and $20,000 for Immigrant Families Together.

Photos from today’s announcement are available here: https://bit.ly/2YRnWvQ.  

About National Night Out

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.