After Bed-Stuy success, Brooklyn DA plans Project Restore expansion to Brownsville * Brooklyn Paper

"The community-based initiative aimed to de-escalate and reduce gang violence, limit law-enforcement interactions, and provide 30 young men ages 18 to 30 from two rival gangs or street crews with a holistic, structured path toward stability. The program offered education and workforce development, internships, life-skills training, individual and group therapy, and mentorship from former gang members on issues such as conflict resolution."

"The program had a 100% success rate: all participants graduated; seven enrolled in college, one completed high school, three enrolled in GED programs, and 43% earned employment credentials, according to Columbia University's Center for Justice post-evaluation report. Participants also contributed to community safety by holding speaking engagements and organizing community events."

"Gonzalez said programs like PRB contributed to a substantial reduction in shootings and homicides. The initiative in Bed-Stuy led to a 28% drop in shooting incidents and a 22% decrease in felony assaults."

Project Restore Bed-Stuy (PRB), a 12-month community-based gang-violence intervention program launched in 2023, successfully served 30 young men ages 18-30 from rival gangs. The initiative, developed by the Kings County District Attorney's Office, Columbia University's Center for Justice, and partner organizations, provided education, workforce development, internships, life-skills training, therapy, and mentorship. All participants graduated, with seven enrolling in college, one completing high school, three entering GED programs, and 43% earning employment credentials. The program contributed to a 28% reduction in shooting incidents and 22% decrease in felony assaults in Bed-Stuy. Building on this success, the KCDA and partners are planning Project Restore Brownsville and strengthening cross-agency collaboration.

Read at Brooklyn Paper