In a recent government meeting, community leaders and advocates voiced urgent calls for increased funding and support for violence interruption programs in Norfolk, Virginia, particularly in the St. Paul's neighborhood, which has seen a troubling rise in homicides over the past few years.

Speakers highlighted the alarming statistics: Norfolk recorded 58 homicides in 2020, 61 in 2021, and peaked at 63 in 2022, making it the eighth most violent city in the U.S. during that period. However, a notable decline in homicides to 42 in 2023 was attributed to grassroots efforts led by organizations like the My Two K Foundation, which has been actively working to mediate conflicts and provide mental health support in the community.

Advocates emphasized the need for sustained funding for community violence intervention (CVI) programs and safe passage initiatives, arguing that these efforts are crucial for preventing violence and fostering safer environments for children and families. The My Two K Foundation has been particularly active in St. Paul's, engaging directly with residents to address the root causes of violence and offering services such as trauma-informed care and conflict resolution.

Community members expressed frustration over perceived competition for funding among organizations, which they believe undermines collaborative efforts to reduce violence. They urged city officials to recognize the effectiveness of community-led initiatives and to allocate necessary resources to support these vital programs.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to addressing violence through community engagement and proactive measures, with advocates calling for immediate action to ensure that the progress made in reducing homicides is not only maintained but built upon in the future.