Charlotte to vote on grant for program helping at-risk teens

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte leaders will vote on nearly $100,000 to keep more than 100 at-risk teens from a life of crime.

Mitchell Feld is an attorney with the Council for Children's Rights.

He said his office represents hundreds of children in the justice system, many facing criminal charges.
 
Charlotte leaders will vote on Monday to accept a $95,000 grant from the state.
 
The money pays for things like sessions focusing on career and decision-making skills. Teens can also develop a plan for their future.
 
The grant does require a 30 percent match, already built into the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's budget.

More than 1,600 children did not commit a crime one year after going through the diversion program, according to city documents.

There has been an 8 percent drop in juvenile arrests in the last two years.

"Ultimately, it leads to more productive members of our community,” Feld said. “We have a more vibrant economy, people doing all different types of trades and jobs out there."

If approved, the grant would fund another year of the program.

Cox Media Group