Bloomington, Indiana – Preventing violence is not always about what happens after an emergency. Sometimes, the most important work takes place long before a crisis, when young people receive guidance, struggling residents find support, and community organizations help address problems before they grow.
Bloomington is putting $150,000 toward that approach, giving local groups another opportunity to turn violence prevention ideas into practical programs that can make a difference in their neighborhoods.
The City of Bloomington has opened applications for its Violence Reduction Grant program, which provides financial support for community-based initiatives aimed at preventing and reducing violence. The funding focuses on efforts backed by evidence, with particular attention to residents and neighborhoods most affected by violence.
Organizations can request up to $30,000 each, creating opportunities for several community groups to receive financial assistance through the program.
The city is encouraging applications from organizations already working closely with Bloomington residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit groups, neighborhood associations, resident councils, and faith-based communities serving local neighborhoods.
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Particular consideration is being given to applicants with demonstrated experience in violence intervention, especially those addressing retaliatory violence or incidents involving young people.
Collaboration is another important part of the selection process. Proposals developed jointly by two or more organizations will receive favorable consideration, reflecting the program’s emphasis on community partnerships.
Previous grants offer examples of how the funding can be used.
During the 2025–2026 grant cycle, People and Animals Learning Services (PALS) received support to expand EQUIPT, a trauma-informed, equine-assisted learning program. The initiative works with young people and families facing a heightened risk of involvement in the justice system.
Another funded project involved the STRIDE Mobile Crisis Team, which expanded round-the-clock transportation and crisis intervention services for unhoused residents.
Through that work, the team provided immediate assistance and safe transportation for people experiencing crisis situations, helping connect vulnerable residents with support when they needed it.
These projects show the range of approaches covered by the grant program. One focuses on learning and support for at-risk youth and families, while the other responds to urgent needs among people experiencing homelessness.
The city’s broader objective is to strengthen grassroots organizations that understand the challenges facing their communities and are positioned to respond directly.
Interested groups have several weeks to prepare their proposals. The application deadline is Friday, November 13, 2026, at 5 p.m.
Organizations seeking funding can review the program information and submit their applications through the city’s online Violence Reduction Grant application.
With $150,000 available and individual awards capped at $30,000, the latest funding opportunity offers Bloomington organizations another chance to expand prevention services and direct resources toward communities dealing with the effects of violence.
