The Miami Foundation will not be hosting its Safe Communities grant program in 2023 as we look to move to a multi-year funding cycle for this program. We anticipate resuming the program in Fall 2024. 

The Safe Communities Program strives to ensure safety and opportunity for all Greater Miami residents. We do this by investing in education and economic mobility, health services to overcome substance dependence, and collective action to improve community safety. The Fund is particularly focused on supporting survivors of human trafficking, gun violence, and other crimes as well as people who were previously involved in the justice system.

ABOUT THE FUND

Funding for the Safe Communities program is supported by the Denise Moon Memorial Fund and the Safer and Healthier Communities Fund. Charitable contributions to both Funds come primarily from criminal defendants at the time of their sentencing or election to participate in pre-trial diversion programs. 

To effectively invest these community resources, the Safe Communities Program was established as one comprehensive grant program in 2021. The program will continue to pursue the Funds’ shared mission to ensure Greater Miami is a safe community that offers opportunities for all residents.

We encourage you to stay connected with The Miami Foundation for additional updates and opportunities throughout the year. 

What we fund

The Safe Communities Program supports nonprofit work in five categories. The descriptions below are intended only to provide guidance and do not exclude other potential approaches. Proposals in each category are considered equally.

Eligible organizations may submit only one application in only one category.

• Crime Prevention and Deterrence | Build a safe community that offers opportunity for all people by activating residents to improve community safety as well as investing in economic and educational mobility to develop alternatives to illicit activity, particularly for people who were previously incarcerated or involved in the justice system. This may include job training or placement programs as well as educational programs about illicit substances to prevent impaired driving.

• Human Trafficking | Support minors or adults who are survivors of human trafficking through high-quality services such as health care, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, housing, immigration services or other critical needs.

• Substance Dependence Services | Guide people to overcome substance dependence or misuse by providing wraparound services that may include substance abuse counseling and treatment, mental health services, or support strategies to develop personal resilience.

• Survivor Assistance | Help survivors and their loved ones overcome the financial, health, or other challenges they face as a result of being victims of gun violence or other crimes. This may include education assistance.

• Youth Development | Prepare youth to successfully reach their full potential in academics, career, and life by supporting youth whose life experiences or environments put them at risk for becoming involved in crime or violence. This may include mentoring, educational support, employment and career preparation, or personal development.

Connect with us

Questions? Please contact Sheryl Saturnino, Community Investment Officer.