The Initiative builds community-based coalitions, comprised of healthcare practitioners, law enforcement officials, educators and residents with a strong representation of young people on whom the Initiative focuses its concern. By initiating meetings and discussion among these groups, the North Philadelphia Firearms Reduction Initiative strives to improve the dangerous situation that currently exists in the neighborhood zip code areas of 19121 and 19132. This is greater than the number of deaths caused by auto accidents, fire drownings, and adverse drug reactions combined.
Many young people believe that carrying a gun is essential to daily survival in today's world.
The Initiative will work with law enforcement to supplement its effort and find ways to reduce the environment of fear in the neighborhood that it serves.