Chicago Tuesday, July 29th, 2025
The Trump administration has cut over $811 million in federal grants for violence prevention and victim support programs across the US, including gun violence prevention initiatives. The Department of Justice terminated 365 grants, representing nearly one-third of its total grant funding, without consulting the managing staff. This move has impacted nonprofits working on gun violence prevention, mental health services, and victim support programs in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
The cuts include $158 million in grants directed towards community violence intervention programs, with 69 out of 145 grants terminated. These programs were part of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, introduced by former President Joe Biden to combat rising gun violence. The Trump administration claims the grants were eliminated because they “no longer effectuate the program’s goals or agency’s priorities”. However, many argue that these programs are crucial in addressing the root causes of gun violence and supporting vulnerable communities.
Organizations affected by the cuts, such as LiveFree OKC and Advance Peace in Fresno, California, will struggle to maintain their services. Brady United has condemned the Trump administration’s decision, urging the restoration of Congressionally-approved funding to states and localities. The cuts have sparked concerns about public safety and the ability of communities to respond to crime and violence.
