During Mental Health Awareness Month, the PNM Resources Foundation is offering $230,000 in grant money for New Mexico nonprofits with programs working to increase community safety.

Each recipient could receive up to $15,000, with preference given to organizations focused on innovative solutions to prevent or reduce crime, including mental health or safety education. Applications can be submitted at PNM.com/grants through May 13.

“Community safety is about helping communities to be and feel safe,” said Laurie Roach, PNM Resources Foundation director, in a news release. “Part of the vision of the PNM Resources Foundation is to support New Mexico organizations working to rebuild stronger, safer, cohesive, vibrant, participatory communities.”

New Mexico has the second-highest violent crime rate in the United States, according to recent FBI crime statistics.

A safe community reduces violence, saves lives and promotes health and safety with a sense of community pride. Also, more families move into safe communities.

The PNM Resources Foundation community safety grants cover program expenses, operational expenses and continuing delivery of positive services to keep communities safe.

“Supporting nonprofits brings hope, opportunity and unity in a place where we all live, work, and raise our families,” according to the release.

The PNM Resources Foundation has supported nonprofit organizations since 1983. It’s a separate, nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation governed by a board of trustees comprised of PNM Resources employees.

No customer funds are part of the PNM Resources Foundation endowment. Eligible nonprofits must hold a 501(c)3 status from the IRS and be within the areas that PNM serves.

For complete grant information, visit PNM.com/grants.