The program is called "Safety Net Works." It focuses on mentoring, crime prevention and violence intervention. Governor Quinn announced funding for the program would be cut due to the state budget crisis.
Friday, protesters laid down to illustrate how violence is killing people in their community. One teen who lost her brother to gun violence pleaded for funding to be restored to the program.
"Please just save our Safety Net Works--we need it in our communities," said Vishena Johnson, Safety Net Works youth.
"How dare the state think about cutting violence-prevention programs when our children are dying," said Jocelyn Jones, Safety Net Works coordinator.
The Safety Net program deals with 14 high-risk areas across the state, 11 of which are in the City of Chicago.
