Haverstraw is getting $352,000 in federal money to help reduce gang activity and keep kids safe.

Youth advocates and local officials came together at a news conference Tuesday to discuss the new funding, which was secured through representatives John Hall (D-District 19) and Elliot Engel (D-District 17).

The money will be put toward a program called Gang Prevention Through Targeted Outreach, which is modeled on a national program. Nyack, Spring Valley and Haverstraw will receive $60,000 to run the program. The remaining $120,000 will provide each youth participant with the materials they need to make the right choices.

Officials say the money is an opportunity for young residents to improve their quality of life and grow up to be contributors to society.

Haverstraw Mayor Michael Kohut (D) says he hopes the program will keep kids out of the legal system in the long run.

Officials hope to have the program up and running by March 1 and say anyone in the three municipalities can make a referral.