Gun violence is a top concern for many in Lackawanna County, and Lt. Governor Austin Davis visited the city to talk about his plans to curb the violence.
SCRANTON, Pa. — Gun violence is a hot topic of discussion around this table at the Boys & Girls Club of Northeastern Pennsylvania in Scranton.
Lt. Gov. Austin Davis led the discussion Wednesday, emphasizing that the issue affects every community in the Keystone State.
“This is not just a Pittsburgh issue, this is not just a Philadelphia issue, this is not just a Scranton issue. This is a Pennsylvania issue, this is a uniquely American issue, but we can and must do something about it,” Lt. Gov. Austin Davis said.
During his visit, Lt. Governor Davis played dodgeball with children at the Boys & Girls Club.
The $11.5 million from the BOOST Act would go toward after-school programs like Boys & Girls Clubs that help keep young people engaged.
“Not only is it a safe place, but it’s also a place with positive activities where they can learn about violence prevention, drug and alcohol prevention. We’re committed to giving the kids who come through our clubs all of those skills,” said Tricia Thomas, executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Part of the budget will be used to help victims of domestic violence: $5 million will go to the Crime Victims Compensation Fund;
According to a report by the Women’s Advocacy Center, of the 104 domestic violence homicides in the state last year, 67 percent involved a gun.
“In our industry, what used to be a black eye is now being called a gunshot wound. To me, this is about accountability,” said Peg Ruddy, executive director of the Women’s Resource Center.
The discussion included lawmakers, Scranton Police, the Lackawanna County District Attorney and commissioners, who emphasized the need for everyone to work together to make the community safer.
“We must address the root causes of violence, like lack of educational opportunities and mental health issues, and continue to help victims and survivors heal from trauma and repair our communities,” Davis explained.
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