City of Fort Worth strengthens crime prevention efforts with major investment in nonprofit partnerships
Fort Worth, Texas – In a significant move to bolster community safety and crime prevention, the City Council of Fort Worth has allocated over $2.1 million in funds to various local agencies and nonprofits. These funds, sourced from the Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD), are earmarked for a range of initiatives designed to enhance the lives of residents by addressing and mitigating crime-related issues.
During the council meeting held on Tuesday, a selection panel, comprising both staff and community representatives, put forth recommendations that were subsequently approved by the CCPD board of directors. The total approved funding amounted to $2,137,221.34, aimed at supporting six crime prevention programs until June 2028. These initiatives are funded through the CCPD Community-Based Fund, reflecting a strategic approach to community-based crime prevention efforts.
Among the funded initiatives, the Community Learning Center (CLC) Inc. has been granted $300,000 to roll out its Community-Based Youth At-Risk Program for Crime Prevention (YARP). Targeting individuals aged 16 to 24, the program aims to diminish risk factors and bolster protective measures through partnerships with local organizations. The focus is on providing educational, training, and employment opportunities to aid in job and career development.
Literacy United has received a $120,000 grant to support the Bookworms Afterschool Reading Program. This initiative focuses on early intervention reading programs for children in grades PK-2 across four Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) schools that are predominantly located in impoverished areas. The program not only aims to enhance academic and social skills among young students but also involves direct training for parents to support their children’s learning at home.
The Women’s Center of Tarrant County was awarded $675,000 for its Rape Crisis Victim Services Continuum of Care Emergency Funding. This comprehensive program provides critical support to children and adults in Fort Worth who have been victims of sexual assault, sexual abuse, or other violent crimes. The funding ensures that victims and their families receive the necessary care and assistance during their recovery process.
Unbound Now will utilize $322,221 in funding to support its Underground Drop-in Center for Trafficked and Exploited Youth. This program offers round-the-clock, trauma-informed services to young people aged 10-22 who are at high risk or have been victims of exploitation. The additional funds will allow for an expansion in staff and outreach efforts, thereby enhancing the program’s capacity to serve more youth effectively.
Girls Inc. of Tarrant County has been allocated $420,000 for its program, Empowering Leaders: Safety and Crime Prevention Reduction for Fort Worth Girls. This initiative merges mentoring and research-based programs to tackle barriers such as violence and poverty, fostering skills like emotional regulation, decision-making, and career readiness in young girls.
Finally, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star received $300,000 for their B.SAFE (Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Safety and Firearm Education) program. This initiative promotes personal safety and well-being through year-round activities and mentoring relationships, focusing on gun violence prevention among the youth.
These allocated funds represent a proactive approach by the Fort Worth City Council and CCPD to not only address immediate crime-related issues but also to invest in the long-term development and safety of the community’s youth and vulnerable populations. Through these programs, the city aims to create a safer, more nurturing environment for all its residents.
