As Pennsylvania lawmakers near a crucial budget deadline, community advocates are rallying for increased funding for anti-gun violence programs, emphasizing the impact of violence on families. In the past two years, gun homicides statewide have decreased by 38 percent, with an impressive 41 percent drop in Pittsburgh, but advocates warn that this progress could stall without essential funding.
Parents like Cathy Welsh, who tragically lost her son to gun violence, stress that such funding supports not just programs, but also healing for affected families. Community organizations are pushing for a total of $80 million to enhance initiatives like mental health support and youth education, believing that early outreach will lead to better outcomes. This grassroot campaign provides hope, encouraging community members to engage actively in combating violence rather than turning away.
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