CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — Champaign County is launching a new program that aims to strengthen gun safety and keep people safe.
The Office of the County Executive announced that the county had been awarded a grant from the Illinois Department of Public Health. They intend to use that grant to launch the Champaign County Gun Safety initiative.
The initiative is designed to promote responsible gun ownership and reduce the risk of firearm-related incidents in the community. It will include educational programming and outreach that informs people on the importance of secure firearm storage, accidental discharges, theft and restraining orders.
Former U of I student gives 10 million for new science center The program will also offer free gun locks and safes paired with educational workshops and outreach efforts. The county is also partnering with local law enforcement, public health officials and community organizations to raise awareness of firearms restraining orders and the benefits of safe firearm storage.
Elly Hanauer-Friedman is a County Board Member and a longtime volunteer leader with Champaign County Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America.
“Gun violence, including gun suicide, continues to be a serious concern throughout our community,” Hanauer-Friedman said. “Champaign County is committed to supporting gun violence prevention efforts and this grant builds on the financial support the county has provided to local gun violence prevention efforts over the past few years. Increased public awareness of and access to safe storage as well as highlighting options to temporarily remove guns from loved ones who pose a threat to themselves, or others will save lives.”
Surgeon General declares gun violence a public health crisis She knows from personal experience the cost of not storing firearms properly.
“This particular issue has been on my mind for a long time, because when I was in high school, a boy in my class was shot and killed with an unsecured gun by his best friend,” said Hanauer-Friedman. “Unfortunately, it seems like we hear about more and more of these types of incidents every day.”
People can sign up for upcoming trainings and learn more about the program and other events by clicking here .
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