Trump slashed violence prevention funding in Oakland. Groups want it restored

Violence prevention organizations in Oakland urged the Trump administration to restore $811 million in federal grants that support critical community programs. Leaders from Youth Alive and NICJR condemned the Justice Department's recent decision to cut funding for initiatives they argue are proven to save lives. Youth Alive's Executive Director Joseph Griffin highlighted the life-or-death implications of these cuts, noting a $2 million reduction to their Caught in the Crossfire program, which provides crisis intervention to shooting victims. NICJR's Executive Director David Muhammad revealed that four grants totaling $5. 5 million were terminated, impacting local programs that help divert youth from the criminal justice system.

Both organizations plan to appeal the grant rescissions, although many do not expect the process to be genuine. Kyndra Simmons from the Health Alliance for Violence Intervention emphasized that these cuts affect not only gun violence rates but also employment opportunities for individuals with criminal backgrounds. Community leaders have long worked to combat gun violence through holistic approaches, including education and direct intervention. The outcome of this funding dispute could significantly alter the landscape of violence prevention efforts in Oakland.