York Region is seeking proposals from residents to address community violence in the Newmarket Heights area and other locations.
The region announced a funding initiative July 20 for resident-led groups to partner with non-profits to get up to $4,000 for their projects. Ideas could include community events, art projects and other “creative initiatives that engage residents in violence prevention efforts.”
“Resident-led groups interested in applying should propose actions linked to the priority areas of mental well-being, housing stability and economic stability to reduce underlying risk factors that can lead to youth crime, harm and victimization,” the region said.
The projects are to be focused on areas for the regional Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, which seeks to aid several areas of the region with social programming. The Newmarket Heights neighbourhood is one of the targeted locations for the plan.
Other focus areas for the plan and funding include Northern Georgina, South-central Markham and south-central Richmond Hill.
The projects for the funding will support youth, the region said, particularly young women as well as Indigenous, Black, 2SLGBTQI+, immigrant and/or refugee youth.
The funding aims to increase awareness about community safety, including the risks and consequences of gang involvement. The region also seeks to increase youth attachment to the labour force, schools and retraining.
Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis until Nov. 30 or until all funds have gotten distributed.
Resident groups must have at least five members that do not live in the same household.
You can contact [email protected] for more information. You can apply york.ca/communityaction.
