ERIE, PA — The Shapiro-Davis Administration has unveiled the “Building Opportunity through Out-of-School” (BOOST) initiative, committing over $11 million in grants to expand afterschool programs across Pennsylvania. This ambitious move is aimed at fostering safer communities while giving thousands of children access to enriching activities beyond the classroom.
The grants will support 46 programs statewide, benefiting urban hubs such as Erie and Pittsburgh as well as rural areas like Butler and Clarion counties. Among beneficiaries is the Erie Police Athletic League, a program lauded for its role in providing youth with safe environments and mentorship.
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, who visited Erie on Thursday, emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying causes of gun violence through comprehensive strategies. “We’ve provided funding to add nearly 1,500 new law enforcement officers in our communities in just two years, but it takes more than just police to make our communities safer,” Davis stated. “We need mental health resources, good schools, workforce development, and afterschool programs like the Erie Police Athletic League, so we can address the root causes of gun violence.”
A key driver of the initiative is the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), chaired by Lt. Gov. Davis. Over the past two years, the agency has directed nearly $13 million toward improving community safety in Erie County alone. Additionally, $45 million in Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) grants were recently approved, including $950,000 for Erie to enhance the police department’s juvenile unit and crisis car program.
State Sen. Dan Laughlin applauded the collaboration driving these efforts, stating, “I am incredibly proud of the work being done in Erie to support our youth and ensure the safety and well-being of our community. These grants demonstrate the power of collaboration between law enforcement, schools, community organizations, and local leaders to address challenges and build a stronger foundation for the future.”
Other leaders speaking at the announcement included Erie Mayor Joe Schember, Lt. Tom Lenox, Rep. Patrick Harkins, and Erie Police Chief Dan Spizarny. Each stressed the importance of uniting across sectors to meaningfully impact community safety.
The BOOST initiative is designed not only to curb gun violence but to empower youth with educational and recreational outlets that steer them toward brighter futures. By working together, Pennsylvania’s leadership aims to build stronger, safer communities that prioritize long-term prevention alongside immediate needs.
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