DCJS is leading the implementation of statewide initiative and funding opportunities aimed at reducing incidents of firearm violence and promoting public safety. The goal is to create a safer environment for all Virginians by implementing a proactive approach to reduce violent crime and ensuring that citizens are protected.

• Operation Ceasefire Fund

The Operation Ceasefire Fund was created by the Virginia General Assembly in Chapter 2 of the Acts of Assembly of the 2022 Special Session 1. This funding source “shall be used solely for the purposes of implementing violent crime reduction strategies, providing training for law-enforcement officers and prosecutors, providing equipment for law enforcement agencies, and awarding grants to organizations such as state and local law-enforcement agencies, local attorneys for the Commonwealth, localities, social services providers, and nonprofit organizations that are engaged in group violence intervention efforts. For the purposes of subsection N.2. of this item, ‘group violence intervention’ means comprehensive law enforcement, prosecutorial, and community-based initiatives, substantially similar to Operation Ceasefire as implemented in Boston, Massachusetts and the Gang Reduction Programs implemented in Richmond and Los Angeles, California, which are documented by the Department of Justice and are carried out between members of law enforcement, members of the community, and social services providers.”

• Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund

The Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund was created by the Virginia General Assembly in Section 408 of Chapter 2 of the Acts of Assembly of the 2022 Special Session 1. This funding source “shall be used for the purpose of supporting gun violence intervention and prevention programs.” Such funds shall be made available “to agencies of local government, community-based organizations, and hospitals for the purpose of supporting implementation of evidence-informed gun violence intervention and prevention efforts, including street outreach, hospital-based violence intervention, and other violence intervention programs.”

Previous and Current Funding Opportunities

2023

Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant

2022

Operation Ceasefire Grant

Community-Based Gun Violence Intervention Grant

2021

Gun Violence Intervention Grant