Justice Department announces $300 million public safety grant initiative for cities
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
WASHINGTON (KBSI) — The U.S. Department of Justice announced a new initiative that will provide nearly $300 million in federal funding to help selected cities reduce crime and improve public safety.
The Model Cities Initiative will award grants to two to four cities that propose comprehensive strategies aimed at reducing crime, restoring public order and improving public safety outcomes.
According to the Justice Department, eligible applicants must be local government entities serving populations of at least 100,000 people. Applications are due Sept. 1, with initial award decisions expected in late 2026.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the initiative is intended to support law enforcement agencies and strengthen public safety efforts nationwide.
Funding may be used for a variety of public safety programs and resources, including law enforcement staffing, crime-fighting technology, officer training, mental health and substance abuse services, victim assistance programs, youth crime prevention initiatives and reentry services for individuals leaving incarceration.
The Justice Department said participating cities must submit a unified application involving local leaders such as mayors, sheriffs and prosecutors. The proposals must outline how the funding would be used to improve law enforcement, victim services, detention and reentry programs, and crime prevention efforts.
Additional information is available through the U.S. Department of Justice.
