Milwaukee safe summer sites for youth; leaders announce investment

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee leaders gathered on Tuesday, June 16, at James Madison Academic Campus to announce a $1.5 million investment in summer youth programming. 

Safe Summer Sites Milwaukee

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It's called "Safe Summer Sites Milwaukee" and organizers say it's focus is on safety and prevention. This coordinated initiative is dedicated to establishing safe, structured, and youth-centered spaces across the city throughout the summer months.

"What we're doing is connecting students with prevention programming, we're connecting them with mentorship," said Mayor Johnson. "We're connecting them with supportive services that help them to grow, and help them to thrive." 

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This effort gives youth ages 12 to 20 a safe place to go Monday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Participants will have access to positive activities, free food, trusted mentors, and family resources.

"When young people don't have a safe place to go, to gather, to connect, they can become vulnerable to violence and harm. That's why we're here today," said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. "Every young person deserves a safe place to spend their summer. Every family deserves a piece of mind, and every neighborhood deserves the opportunity to thrive."

Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services, the City of Milwaukee, Children’s Wisconsin, the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Public Schools, and community partners will outline a coordinated summer safety and prevention investment on Tuesday. 

To ensure local youth have a safe and welcoming space after hours, Milwaukee Recreation provides free evening programming and extended hours at select schools. 

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