FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[JAN 15] - Washington, DC – Community Justice applauds the passage of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026. This legislation includes $50 million for the Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI) housed in the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs and more than $40 million in earmarks supporting violence intervention and prevention work, critically-needed resources that will help our communities thrive, heal, and build lasting safety.
“After the Department of Justice abruptly terminated more than $800 million in CVI and other public safety grants last year, this legislation makes clear that there remains strong, bipartisan support for community violence intervention work in Congress,” said José Alfaro, Executive Director, Community Justice. “A commitment to invest in people. A commitment to stabilize essential programs. And a commitment to advancing solutions that center dignity, opportunity, and justice — and to ensuring resources without any harmful conditions or restrictions, including requirements that force grantees to collaborate or share information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.”
This bill provides vital support for programs that strengthen violence prevention, public health, housing stability, education, and community-based services — all foundational to safe, thriving neighborhoods. These investments move us closer to the kind of future our communities deserve: one where safety is rooted in care, opportunity, and shared prosperity.
“While today’s victory is significant, the work does not stop here. Looking ahead, Community Justice remains committed to holding leaders accountable for ensuring that funding reaches the communities most impacted by violence and systemic injustice and that community-based organizations are able to access these resources without any harmful conditions or restrictions placed on grant awardees,” Alfaro continued. “We will continue advocating for bold, people-centered policies that go beyond short-term solutions and address the root causes of inequality and harm.”
In December, Community Justice’s Invest In Us Coalition organized a letter to congressional leadership signed by more than 60 organizations urging Congress to continue funding CVI through the CVIPI grant program. This moment reminds us what is possible when communities organize, advocate, and demand better. Together, we will keep pushing for a future where every person — regardless of zip code, income, or background — has the support they need to live with safety, stability, and hope.
Press Contact: [Eboni Munn, Communications Director, [email protected]]
