Federal Government Commits Up to $1.9 Million to Prevent Gun and Gang Violence in Halifax
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced up to $1.9 million for the Halifax Regional Municipality through the Build Safer Communities Fund to support youth mentorship, safe spaces, and crisis de-escalation programs aimed at preventing gun and gang violence.
Federal Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced on Tuesday in Dartmouth that the government will commit up to $1.9 million to the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) to prevent gun and gang violence. The funding is delivered through the federal Build Safer Communities Fund (BSCF). 
The investment aims to support local initiatives that guide children, youth, and young adults away from guns and gangs. Programs funded through the BSCF provide safe spaces, trusted support networks, positive opportunities, and improved access to educational and mental health resources for vulnerable young people. The initiative also develops tools and training to educate youth on healthy relationships and online risks.
Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore stated that the measures will strengthen community groups and steer vulnerable youth away from crime. Public safety advisor Amy Siciliano said the new funding will help expand crisis de-escalation supports for youth.
This announcement follows a March 2026 commitment by the federal government to renew support for the national program with $157.5 million over the next three years. Since 2022, the municipality has received more than $3 million during the program’s first installment.
According to HRM data, there were nine homicides and 30 shootings in the municipality in 2025. 
Broader crime statistics show a downward trend. Statistics Canada reported that Canada’s crime severity index dropped five per cent in 2025, marking the second consecutive annual decline. The current national index stands at 75.01, down from a previous high of 81.27. In Nova Scotia, the crime severity index decreased by 2.5 after peaking at 75.5 in 2024.