Governor Hochul Expands SNUG Program with $20.7M Investment

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant investment of $20.7 million to bolster the SNUG Street Outreach programs aimed at reducing gun violence across 14 communities in New York State, including Rochester. This funding will support community-based organizations and hospitals by providing resources for outreach workers, hospital responders, social workers, and case managers who serve as credible messengers to individuals at risk of gun violence. These professionals work to connect at-risk individuals with support services to encourage behavioral change and enhance opportunities.

The SNUG program employs a public health approach to combat gun violence by identifying its sources, interrupting its transmission, and treating those affected. Administered by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, SNUG is a key component of Governor Hochul's comprehensive strategy to address the root causes and consequences of gun violence and other crimes.

Recent data underscores the effectiveness of these initiatives. Communities participating in the state's Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) initiative have reported a record low in shooting incidents with injury, with a 28% reduction from 817 incidents in 2023 to 588 in 2024. This decline highlights the impact of coordinated efforts between outreach programs and law enforcement.

Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of these programs, stating, "Public safety is my number one priority—that's why my Budget invests in proven initiatives like the SNUG program to drive down gun violence, save lives, and keep New Yorkers safe." She also highlighted the collaborative nature of these efforts, noting that outreach teams work alongside law enforcement and local partners to address gun violence comprehensively.

In Rochester, the SNUG program has been instrumental in mediating conflicts and providing access to counseling and case management, contributing to a safer community. State Senator Samra G. Brouk remarked, "Over $20 million dollars in funding to reduce gun violence across New York State will build upon the tremendous impact that programs such as GIVE have already had on communities like Rochester. I applaud Governor Hochul for addressing the root causes of violence and supporting working solutions to protect our fellow New Yorkers."

The $20.7 million investment will fund staff, programs, services, equipment, and technology for SNUG locations in Albany, the Bronx, Buffalo, Hempstead, Mount Vernon, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie, Rochester, Syracuse, Troy, Utica, Wyandanch, Yonkers, and Wyandanch. This comprehensive approach aims to create safer streets and communities throughout New York State.