Legal Aid Society: Family & Youth Development Grantee

In February 2017, The Legal Aid Society was selected to receive funds under the Criminal Justice Investment Initiative (CJII) in response to the Manhattan District Attorney Office’s request for proposals for family and youth development programs.

With these funds, The Legal Aid Society is establishing a program in conjunction with the Child and Family Institute at Mt. Sinai St. Luke’s Hospital to address the legal and mental health needs of students in need of special education services in Manhattan. The program will provide legal advocacy and representation, legal screenings, parent know-your-rights trainings, parent groups, and mental health services for families.

The Legal Aid Society is one of several organizations to receive funds to strengthen families and prevent risk factors that affect youth development—such as academic problems, dropping out of school, and antisocial behavior. The effectiveness and efficiency of such programs is well–established. This program, along with the other initiatives being developed under CJII, form a comprehensive set of strategic investments that, together, will have a significant, lasting impact on public safety and justice reform in New York City.