June 17, 2009

WHYTE ANNOUNCES 2009 SUMMER PRIMETIME FUNDING AS WEST SIDE VIOLENCE ESCALATES

Community leaders call for an end to violence and underscore importance of youth programming

Buffalo, NY -- Erie County Majority Leader and 6th District Legislator Maria Whyte (D-Buffalo) was joined by Legislator Betty Jean Grant, Niagara District Councilmember David Rivera (D), members of the Buffalo Police Department, a representative from NYS Assemblymember Sam Hoyt's office, directors and staff of several West Side youth organizations, and the Stop the Violence Coalition this afternoon to discuss the recent wave of violent crime on the West Side and the Legislature’s efforts to secure vital youth programming dollars. Several neighborhood residents were in attendance at the intersection of Grant and W. Delavan Streets, site of both the press conference and a recent homicide.

Most of the recent West Side shootings have involved youth. Whyte explained, "Without good alternatives, such as quality youth programming and employment opportunities, our young men and women are going to fall into bad situations. I have always, from day one, believed that the best crime prevention tool we have is youth programming and for this reason, I have fought to secure Summer Primetime youth programming funds for organizations in my district."

Surrounded by Directors and staff members from several West Side youth organizations, Whyte announced the 2009 recipients of Summer Primetime funds and applauded her colleagues on the Erie County Legislature for once again supporting these necessary funds. The County Executive, Chris Collins, has indicated his intention to re-examine all non-mandated programs and re-consider the County’s participation in them.

Rivera, a former Buffalo Police Officer, echoed Whyte's call. "The best assistance we can give our law enforcement officers in their effort to curb crime among young people is to fight for youth programming. Without some place to go and without something to do, kids are going to get into trouble. We need to provide them real alternatives." Rivera, who has been fighting for more crime surveillance cameras in his West Side district, also stated that the Police department has been supportive of his and other's efforts to reach kids at an early age.

"Several members of the Police Department, including Chiefs, have attended meetings about youth programs and crime prevention in my district," Rivera said.

Members of the community reacted to the recent crime and implored elected and community leaders to take seriously the task of reducing violence.

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