GREENFIELD — Greenfield City Council has approved acceptance of a $500,000 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program grant, recommended by the Board of State and Community Corrections, to expand local services for at-risk youth.
The funding strengthens the city’s six-year partnership with Sun Street Centers and its Road to Success diversion program, which works with the Greenfield Police Department to provide teens with alternatives to entering the juvenile justice system.
According to the department, the collaborative effort aims to give young people a “second chance, focusing on prevention, accountability and positive choices, before entering the court system.”
Road to Success is a pre-diversion program serving youth ages 13 to 17 who are identified as being at risk of suspension, expulsion or juvenile justice involvement. The program develops individualized diversion plans that may include substance-use intervention and education, mentoring, counseling for youth and families, parent workshops, school engagement and community service.
Youth also participate in evidence-based programs, such as WhyTry and Life Skills Training, and work with community volunteers through cleanup projects or service hours at local organizations.
Sun Street Centers staff collaborate with students and their families to address issues ranging from drug use and co-occurring behavioral challenges to truancy and academic struggles. Diversion plans are reviewed by the Community Accountability Board, a panel of trained volunteers who meet with youth, discuss the impact of their offense and help determine appropriate service hours, restitution or counseling.
Greenfield Police noted that many teens referred to the program in recent years have struggled with “substance abuse, vaping, alcohol use and gang involvement.” Early intervention, they said, is key to preventing long-term problems.
“Identifying these needs early and offering the proper support can prevent long-term issues and help build a successful future for youth and our community,” stated the department.
The newly awarded funds will allow up to 120 youth to participate over the next two years, expanding access to counseling, mentorship, life-skills training and community involvement opportunities. Officials hope the investment will reduce recidivism and help teens build the foundation for future success.
“We thank the Greenfield City Council for continuing to support our youth and community safety,” said Greenfield Police.
The department also shared a message for local families: “Everything starts at home! Stay involved, guide your children and don’t hesitate to ask for help. We’re here to support families who want to make a positive change.”
