The Boys and Girls Club of Buffalo is pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Justice has awarded them a grant totaling $567,416.
The grant comes as part of the Second Chance Act which authorizes grants to aid at-risk juveniles in need of employment assistance, substance abuse treatment, housing, mentoring, and victims support services.
The grant, secured by Congressman Brian Higgins, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Senator Charles Schumer, will allow the club to provide a safe place for at-risk children in the city of Buffalo, children who are in danger of failing academically, susceptible to gang violence, drugs, or juvenile delinquency. Boys and Girls Club staff and volunteer mentors are on-hand to assist students in reading, writing, math and science, and act as guidance to reduce risky behaviors and encourage interest in higher education.
“It is so important to engage these children in programs that will help them succeed in school and provide a path to positive, hopeful futures,” said Diane Rowe, Chief Professional Officer of the Boys and Girls Club of Buffalo.