CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Earlier this week, the city of Charlotte opened up applications for grants as part of its SAFE Charlotte plan. $1 million is being offered for non-profits seeking grant money as they try to seek solutions to combatting youth violence in the Queen City.
The impact that anti-violence groups have on the city is best seen through the eyes of people who get a much-needed hand up. That includes people like Katiyah Hines, who told WCNC Charlotte reporter Tradesha Woodard about her path to getting her life back in order.
"I went to jail for six months and I had a bond that was over a million dollars," said Hines.
She said two years ago, she hit a new low. She made a mistake that landed her behind bars.
At the time, Hines said she felt like her life had ended.
"I didn’t have any help, support, or any guidance, and that makes it easier to do things the wrong way," she said.
Hines said eventually she connected with a non-profit called Freedom Fighting Missionaries, which helps people who are formerly incarcerated with re-entry by offering services and resources. The organization helped her regain freedom and transform her life.
"I have more now than I ever had in my life, and it feels like a dream because everything is done the legal way," said Hines.
Freedom Fighting Missionaries also helped her with her son, her home, and her business, Braid Barbie. She says she’s most grateful for the hope the group has instilled within her, something she’ll carry forever.
"It's like giving us light for people who experience so much darkness," she said.
Kenneth Robinson is the founder of Freedom Fighting Missionaries. He said as the city continues to make investments to help those in need, there will be more success stories.
"The more resources that are poured into underserved communities, the more resources for people to thrive and grow," said Robinson.
Robinson said he is optimistic the Queen City will see a reduction in crime and violence and an uptick in upward mobility for those coming from underserved communities.
Applications for a SAFE Charlotte grant are being accepted through March 15, 2024. Recipients will be announced on May 6, and the contract period for awarded grants will start July 1. Interested non-profit leaders can attend an optional review session on Feb. 15.
More information, including the application, can be found at this link.
Contact Tradesha Woodard at twoodard1@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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