Community Justice, ATX Peace, and Coalition Partners Celebrate Historic Investment in Public Safety Solutions Rooted in Community
June 23, 2025
Austin, TX — In a major win for community-based public safety efforts, the Texas state budget for 2026-2027 includes a $2 million appropriation to support violence intervention strategies led by local governments, nonprofit organizations, and grassroots coalitions. Community Justice, ATX Peace, and a growing coalition of statewide partners applaud the allocation, which will fund grants through the Project Safe Neighborhood Grant Program under Strategy B.1.1 of the state’s Criminal Justice budget.
The funding—$2 million from the General Revenue Fund—will support the expansion of community violence intervention (CVI) strategies that are data-driven, trauma-informed, and rooted in the lived experience of local leaders and residents most impacted by violence.
“Community violence requires community solutions. This investment recognizes what we’ve known for years—trusted messengers and grassroots strategies save lives,” said Christina Delgado, National Organizing Manager at Community Justice. “With this support, we can deepen our work in neighborhoods across the state that have long been under-resourced and over-policed.”
The funding is a direct result of sustained advocacy from community-based organizations and public safety coalitions demanding a shift away from punitive approaches toward prevention and healing. CVI programs, such as violence interrupters, hospital-based outreach, and restorative justice practices, have shown measurable results in reducing shootings and improving public health outcomes.
“We are grateful that the $2 million to address gun violence has been reinstated; this is more than funding; it’s a life-saving investment in our communities. At ATX Peace, Life Anew, and Jails to Jobs, we know that prevention works when trusted messengers, trauma-informed care, and economic opportunity are prioritized,” said Sherwynn Patton, Co-Executive Director at Life Anew. “This renewed commitment strengthens the ecosystem we are cultivating, one rooted in healing, accountability, and opportunity. Real safety begins with connection, restoration, and community-led solutions.”
“I am encouraged to see the State of Texas making a meaningful investment in reducing gun violence by supporting community-based organizations, “ said Eddie Franz, Executive Director at Jail to Jobs. This marks a critical first step toward a broader, long-term commitment to ensuring that every community across Texas can experience the same sense of safety and security.”
The coalition—which includes partners from across Texas—will continue working with local governments to ensure equitable access to the funds and to monitor outcomes that center safety, dignity, and racial equity.
About the Partners
Community Justice is committed to reducing gun violence in Black and brown communities by empowering those who are closest to the pain. We advocate for resources and policies that support community-based solutions, rather than channeling funds into outdated policy ideas.
ATX Peace is breaking the cycle of violence and fostering peace and building safer neighborhoods in Austin, TX.
Media Contact:
Eboni Munn
Director of Communications, Community Justice
eboni@cjactionfund.org