Mayor Domenic J. Sarno issues a statement following a grant funding announcement from the state’s Executive Office of Public Safety and Security and Office of Grants and Research.
Mayor Sarno states, “First of all, I am thankful to Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, and Secretary of Public Safety and Security Terrence Reidy for their support of these important programs. Second chances, where warranted, with accountability, remorse, and hard work can move an individual forward on the right path. My administration is proud to have funded and partnered with ROCA to provide youth and young adults that are at-risk of going down the wrong path with our judicial system a second chance by offering a solid foundation to better their lives and choose this innovative model to say no to violence and criminal activity. The Mission Inc. program is another program I have stood up for and funded too as part of our public safety initiatives for second chance opportunities where warranted. And of course, my longstanding partnership standing up for and funding program initiatives with the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department too. I commend ROCA Springfield President Solomon Baymon and the ROCA team, Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi and team, and Brother Johnnie Muhammad and his team at The Mission Inc. on their dedication to serving and strengthening our communities.”