Starting today, Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley is inviting area non-profit organizations that work with kids and teens to apply for his annual series of cash awards to provide the young people of Boston, Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop with constructive alternatives to crime and drug use.

The annual funds, which total $50,000 this year, are disbursed from Conley’s Asset Forfeiture Reinvestment Program. The program takes cash and assets seized from drug dealers and awards them to Suffolk County organizations that help young people avoid drugs, gangs, and crime.

“Despite cuts to our budget, the nonprofit organizations that serve young people in our cities and towns need our support,” Conley said. “In lean economic times, it becomes even more important to fund these programs and make them available to kids. Staying involved in activities that encourage nonviolence and community participation can help keep them from getting into trouble. It’s a proven crime prevention tool.”

Award recipients are selected each year by an independent panel of county residents appointed by the district attorney. This year’s grants will range from $2,500 to $7,500.

Non-profit organizations wishing to apply for a grant award should request an application from Fabiola Pierre, Deputy Director of Community Relations, at (617) 619-4139 or Fabiola.Pierre@massmail.state.ma.us. Completed applications must be emailed no later than 5 p.m. on August 2.

State law allows up to 10 percent of money from the auctions of dealers’ property and confiscated funds to be returned to the community. Since 1992, the program has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars to dozens of youth groups, community centers, and social service agencies.