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Stimulus funding is
available through the Edward Byrne Memorial Competitive
Grant Program, one component of which provides money to
improve resources and services for victims of crime. The
PDRC works closely with victims of crime and the criminal
justice system by providing an opportunity for victims to
speak directly to offenders in a safe, controlled
environment. These face-to-face, facilitated meetings help
offenders understand the implications and impacts of their
behaviors, and to take responsibility for what they have
done. Studies have shown that participants in restorative
justice conferences such as these have a reduced rate of
repeat offenses, thereby reducing the burden on the criminal
justice system.
The proposed application
requests funding for operating expenses for the Restorative
Justice Program for two (2) years. Currently, the majority
of PDRC’s Restorative Justice funding is obtained through
another Department of Justice (DOJ) grant, which will not be
renewed this year. Therefore, for PDRC to continue to
provide support to the court systems and victims of crime,
they must seek another funding source.
A key component of the
Recovery Act is job creation and retention; the requested
funding would allow for the creation of a part-time
position, and prevent Restorative Justice staff from losing
their employment. Award of this grant would provide PDRC
funding to continue services to the court systems at the
current level.
The County is applying on
behalf of PDRC to facilitate the application process. |