Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2010, $300,000)
The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), 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 recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, 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 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.
The Jersey City Housing Authority (JCHA) was awarded a FY 2010 congressionally mandated award in the amount of $300,000 for its Drug Elimination Program. JCHA owns and operates six conventional public housing family developments housing approximately 1,650 families. These family sites have long held the stigma of being high-intensity and narcotics-related crime areas. First, JCHA will utilize the grant funds to continue the off-duty police presence at all sites which will combat and reduce the incidences of crime, drug, and gang activity. Second, the funds will be used to implement a Chess Club for the teenagers that will be taught by members of the Jersey City Police Department. The skills learned through the mastery of chess will increase the mental skills of youths while simultaneously providing a fun filled activity. In addition, chess will offer a non-confrontational setting where police officers and teenagers can engage in healthy discussions, tutoring, awareness, and learning can take place in a unique forum not previously available.
NCA/NCF