Westchester steps up efforts to curb gang violence

Westchester County will fund programs to curb gang violence with money earmarked to target the source of the violence.
The county is investing $100,000 in three agencies. The Nepperhan Community Center in Yonkers is receiving $35,000 for its Transitions Program. The program is different because it targets people already in gangs and offers them skills so they can choose a new lifestyle.
Jim Bostic is the director of the center and wants to keep the teens and young adults from re-entering prison. Bostic says gang members are often searching for what is missing in their lives.
Forty-thousand dollars will be set aside for the Guidance Center's Power of Peace Program in Mount Vernon. Family Services of Westchester will receive $23,000 for mentoring programs.
Bostic says he hopes these steps will help young people get a second chance.
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