For Immediate Release:
October 17, 2007

Contact: Sara Anderson
(573) 526-0407

Gov. Blunt Announces Nearly $1.76 Million in Juvenile Justice Grants

Jefferson City – Gov. Blunt today announced that nearly $1.76 million in juvenile justice grants have been awarded to community and local government agencies in Missouri to build upon juvenile justice reform efforts underway across the state.

"Fighting and reducing crime at all levels is important, but helping misguided children find their way to brighter future for themselves and our communities carries special importance," Gov. Blunt said. "These grants help lead children down a healthy path to becoming productive citizens and they are an important investment in Missouri's communities."

"The funds are dedicated to help educate our youth about the consequences of engaging in criminal activities," said Mark James, director of Public Safety. "By holding them accountable we strengthen our justice system ultimately improving public safety in our schools and neighborhoods."

Juvenile Justice Grants were awarded for the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant, totaling $713,802.41; forth Title II Formula Block Grant, totaling $932,219.73; and for the Title Formula Block, totaling $112,800.63. Juvenile Accountability Block grants typically go to local governmental agencies, such as juvenile courts while Title II and Title V grant recipients include local government and community-based agencies.

The Juvenile Accountability BlockGrant provides federal funds to local units of government who participate in the juvenile justice program and aim to make the process more effective and efficient. Title II grants favor applicants that provide services to juvenileswith programs in minority youth issues, gender specific programming for females, and innovative programs for youth at risk. Title V grants provide funds to local units of government and agencies that provide delinquency prevention programming.

Gov. Blunt’s Juvenile Justice Advisory Group (JJAG) continuously monitors and reviews all award recipients to make sure they are compliant with state statute and grant terms. The Juvenile Justice Program is housed within the Missouri Department of Public Safety and is responsible for administering federal grants that help support local juvenile justice and delinquency prevention initiatives.