Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that American Samoa has been awarded $93,413.00 in federal grants under the Juvenile Accountability Block Grants program.

            “American Samoa did not have to compete for these funds.  Instead, Congress authorized these funds and directed that they be distributed to the states and territories according to a formula based on population and other factors,” Congressman Faleomavaega said. 

“Authorized under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safety Streets Act, the Juvenile Accountability Block Grants program is part of the federal government’s national effort to reduce juvenile offending through accountability-based initiatives focused on both the offender and the juvenile justice system.”

            “It is crucial that we pay close attention to the problems affecting our youth.  Our sons and daughters are the future of our Territory and, as a Member of Congress, I am pleased that the federal government continues to provide American Samoa with the support it needs to address juvenile concerns.”

            “I commend Mr. Alaalamua Filoiali’i and his staff at the American Samoa Criminal Justice Planning Agency for the successful administration of this program and, as always, I thank the people of American Samoa for their continued support and prayers,” the Congressman concluded.