Matzie: Nearly $2.4 million secured for violence prevention, survivor supports

AMBRIDGE, Jan. 13 – Two state grants totaling nearly $2.4 million will bolster Beaver County anti-violence programs and strengthen resources for survivors, state Rep. Rob Matzie, D-Beaver, announced today.

Matzie said the funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency includes $1.5 million to the Phase 4 Learning Center, Inc. in Monaca to support the center’s P4:247 CommUNITY program.

“It’s a unique program that uses strength and fitness training as a way to empower Beaver and Allegheny County youth and families victimized by violence and help them channel their anger, develop self-control and build back self-esteem,” Matzie said. “The program also provides education and work readiness training.”

A second grant of $887,767 to the Women’s Center of Beaver County will support both survivor support services and violence-prevention programs for at-risk youth.

“The Women’s Center of Beaver County runs powerful anti-violence and trauma support programs, and a key part of those efforts involves tapping the skills of professionals in multiple fields, from criminal justice to human services to medical and counseling,” Matzie said. “Securing this new funding will ensure the center has the resources it needs to continue those connections and expand services for our community.”

The funding comes from PCCD’s
Violence Intervention and Prevention Competitive Grant program.