In a recent New York City Council hearing focused on public safety and alternatives to incarceration (ATI) budgets, advocates requested a significant increase of $24.6 million towards ATI and re-entry services. This funding aims to bolster community-based programming designed to reduce recidivism and support individuals re-entering society after incarceration. The expanded resources are intended to increase access to essential services, including mental health care and housing assistance, helping individuals avoid pathways to jail.
# What’s happening
– The NYC Council approved an increase of $24.6 million for ATI and re-entry services in the preliminary budget.
– The request is spearheaded by various advocacy organizations and is supported by City Council members.
– This funding is expected to take effect in the upcoming fiscal year, aimed at improving community safety.
# Why it matters
– Individuals with criminal records and their families are directly affected by the availability of re-entry services.
– Increased funding for these programs can enhance public safety by reducing recidivism rates and improving community stability.
# Key details
– $24.6 million increase in ATI and re-entry services requested for fiscal year 2027.
– 10,000 people served through ATI programs by the Fortune Society in fiscal year 2025.
– 83% completion rate for ATI participants during fiscal year 2025.
– Proposed allocations include $10 million for additional ATI programs and $10 million for re-entry services.
– A recent survey indicated that three out of four crime victims prefer treatment over incarceration.
– The projected cost to operate Rikers Island is $2.99 billion in fiscal 2027.
Testimony from advocates highlighted the critical need for this funding. Lily Shapiro, policy counsel for the Fortune Society, emphasized that community-based programs can effectively break cycles of involvement in the justice system. Organizations reported success rates of 92% for participants in gun diversion programs and significant reductions in recidivism among those involved in ATI initiatives.
Isabelle Greenberg from the Center for Employment Opportunities noted that the organization serves over 68,000 residents yearly, emphasizing the value of transitional employment for individuals recently released from incarceration. She remarked that appropriate funding could significantly amplify their ability to assist these individuals.
Advocates further requested funding to restore cuts totaling $1.3 million for alternatives to incarceration and $3.3 million for re-entry services, reinforcing the belief that investment in such services is essential to creating safer communities. This request aligns with the city council’s commitment to reduce the population at Rikers Island and enhance public safety through preventive measures rather than incarceration.
Reflecting the consensus among various stakeholders, the iterative request for increased funding aims not only to secure current programs but also to expand them, ensuring that the needs of underserved populations are met to prevent future incarceration.
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