Today, Assemblymember Monica P. Wallace (D-Lancaster) announced that she has secured $10,000 in state funding to support Buffalo Peacemakers Youth Violence and Gang Intervention Program. Buffalo Peacemakers is comprised of four community groups – Back to Basics Outreach Ministries Inc., the Buffalo United Front, Buffalo F.A.T.H.E.R.S., and the Stop the Violence Coalition, Inc. – as well as about 30 volunteers.

Peacemakers work to build community relationships, mediate conflicts to prevent violence, and mentor and redirect youth into healthy lifestyles. In addition to their work to prevent violence in Buffalo, the Peacemakers also maintain a presence to promote peace in the Town of Cheektowaga, including at the Walden Galleria and Town Park.

“Buffalo Peacemakers are a tremendous resource in our community,” said Assemblymember Wallace.“They engage young people and encourage them to make smart decisions that avoid violence and keep peace. Their efforts to maintain order in places like the Galleria Mall and Town Park have been invaluable, and this funding ensures their work in the community continues to be supported.”

“Our mission is to engage at-risk individuals, particularly young people, to encourage them to make smart decisions and avoid dangerous situations,” said Pastor James Giles, of Buffalo Peacemakers. “At the Walden Galleria, we will be making sure that teenagers in the mall are following the parental escort policy and staying out of trouble. We thank Assemblymember Wallace for securing this funding to help us continue our mission of maintaining the peace in our communities.”