FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. ----

Congressman Eni Faleomavaega announced today that he has received a grant notification from the U.S. Department of Justice for an award under Title V of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974. The $33,000 awarded to the American Samoa Criminal Justice Planning Agency is to support local delinquency prevention programs.

The Title V program was set up to reduce delinquency and youth violence by supporting innovative community programs which foster the growth and development of productive and responsible citizens. The Congressman explained, "The goal of the program is to encourage and assist local communities in developing comprehensive delinquency reduction plans."

The Congressman acknowledged the efforts of Laauli Filoialii, Director of American Samoa's Criminal Justice Planning Agency, and his staff in securing this funding. "Director Laauli and his staff should be commended for submitting a successful application," said Faleomavaega. "These funds are critical to supporting the community's commitment to our youth and to our families."

Faleomavaega continued, "There is no place in the faasamoa for delinquent behavior. In this rapidly changing world, we must make use of every resource in order to safeguard the community's most fundamental treasure -- our young people." The Congressman concluded, "It is up to each of us to do what we can to guide our young people along paths which prepare them to rise to the challenges ahead. These funds will support community efforts in that direction."