Today, Assemblymember Monica P. Wallace (D-Lancaster) announced that she has secured $10,000 in state funding to support Buffalo Peacemakers Youth Violence and Gang Intervention Program. Buffalo Peacemakers is comprised of four community groups – Back to Basics Outreach Ministries Inc., the Buffalo United Front, Buffalo F.A.T.H.E.R.S., and the Stop the Violence Coalition, Inc. – as well as about 30 volunteers.

Peacemakers work to build community relationships, mediate conflicts to prevent violence, and mentor and redirect youth into healthy lifestyles. In addition to their work to prevent violence in Buffalo, the Peacemakers also maintain a presence to promote peace in the Town of Cheektowaga, including at the Walden Galleria and Town Park.

“As we grapple with a nationwide scourge in gun violence, it is vital that we take a multifaceted, collaborative approach to proactively prevent violence from occurring and address the root social causes of crime,” said Assemblymember Wallace. “Buffalo Peacekeepers does just that by working to interrupt the cycle of violence and steer at-risk youth toward healthy, safe, and productive lifestyles. I’m sure that their presence will help the Town of Cheektowaga maintain its record as a safe community for all.”