A new space in Yonkers is dedicated to keeping the community safe.

The ribbon was cut on a new safe haven in Yonkers Friday afternoon.

Inside the YMCA is SNUG's new office that also serves as a community space.

There's games, TV's and places to do homework.

"It's like as soon as they step in this office, all of their worries are out the way," says Maurice Burgess, with Yonkers SNUG.

Burgess knows firsthand how important a space like this is.

"I did a long time in prison. I knew I had to do something differently, getting the opportunity to work with SNUG was one of the best things to ever happen to me," says Burgess.

He, along with the other members of SNUG, are working hard to reduce gun violence.

A big part of that is through building trust with the community.

Those efforts never stop.

In early March, there were three shooting incidents within three days of each other in Yonkers.

The mayor says violent crime is actually down about 20%.

He says SNUG plays a crucial role in tackling violence at all angles.

"It's nice I know I can count on the people with SNUG because they are individuals who have walked a mile in their shoes," says Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano.

And now with more space to do just that, Burgess says they are optimistic about what it will do for this community.

"This environment right here is designed to stop what's to come," Burgess tells News 12.

You can read more about Yonkers SNUG here: https://yoymca.org/snug/