Tattoo Removal Violence Prevention Outreach Program

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The Providence Health & Services Foundation and its Providence Holy Cross Foundation will use funding for the Tattoo Removal Violence Prevention Outreach Program, which serves those individuals that may face employment barriers and/or safety issues because of past decisions and removes visible tattoos that represent a former lifestyle they are trying to change. Specifically, these are at-risk youth and young adults from the Los Angeles area who seek employment, decreased risk of injury on the streets, and the ability to change lifestyles and become productive members of the community. Working in conjunction with Los Angeles Police Department, parole and probation offices, youth programs, schools, teen and family centers, and rehabilitation centers, the Tattoo Removal Violence Prevention Program currently receives walk-ins and referrals, and will evaluate and remove visible tattoos using a grant-funded MedLite laser machine. In exchange for tattoo removal, each patient is responsible for serving the community for a defined number of hours. Funds will also support a career counselor who will advise youth who are vulnerable and at risk of making choices that could impact their future success. In addition, funds will be used to compensate contracted licensed physicians and nurses who volunteer their time in the Tattoo Removal Violence Prevention Program performing the actual tattoo removal. These project activities are intended to fill an unmet need in the struggle to prevent gang-related violence in the San Fernando Valley.

NCA/NCF