Tenderloin to get its first dedicated violence prevention program under 1-year trial - Local News Matters

San Francisco's Tenderloin District will launch its first youth violence prevention program, announced by District 5 Supervisor Bilal Mahmood and Mayor Daniel Lurie. This one-year pilot program aims to serve up to 20 transitional-aged youths, addressing the area's pervasive violence and drug issues. Funded by a $200,000 donation from Silicon Valley donors, the initiative will be managed by United Playaz, a nonprofit known for its mentorship programs. Mahmood highlighted that 57 teenagers aged 13-17 have been arrested for drug-related offenses in the city this year, many in the Tenderloin. He stated that the program seeks to recognize the 3,500 young residents often overlooked in conversations about the neighborhood.

The pilot will include tailored support services and programs designed by local youths, including after-school activities and trauma-informed mentoring. The assessment of this pilot will determine necessary adjustments and potential funding for future expansion. Mahmood aims to create a sustainable framework for supporting at-risk youth in the Tenderloin community.