Gun Violence Prevention
Gun violence is a serious issue in Maryland, especially in cities like Baltimore, where the majority of homicides involve firearms. Maryland had a firearm death rate of 12.3 per 100,000 people in 2021, with over 60% of gun-related deaths concentrated in Baltimore. Beyond fatalities, more than 1,000 people are non-fatally shot each year, leaving lasting physical and emotional scars. Gun violence also imposes heavy costs on communities, with Maryland spending over $3B annually on medical care, emergency services, and lost wages. Impacts neighborhoods experience stalled economic growth, social disconnection, and widespread trauma, especially among children.
Baltimore Community Violence Intervention Ecosystem
In Baltimore, the Community Violence Intervention (CVI) ecosystem plays a crucial role in addressing gun violence. This network of local programs and initiatives works to prevent violence by directly engaging with individuals at risk and providing support to those impacted by gun violence. The CVI ecosystem focuses on interrupting cycles of violence, offering resources like conflict mediation, trauma support, and pathways to safer futures. These efforts are key in reducing gun-related incidents and building stronger, safer communities in Baltimore.
