An innovative program in Tampa aims to stop community violence by focusing on teens arrested for carrying guns. It offers support and mentors so they can get a new start outside of the jail system.
In Florida, recent mass shootings prompted lawmakers to crack down on teens who carry guns. A new law means more time in juvenile jail for possessing a gun, even if the teen doesn't use it. But does time behind bars help teenagers turn their lives around? Stephanie Colombini at member station WUSF reports on an alternative for young offenders, a Tampa program that's taking a public health approach by addressing underlying causes of community violence.
DAMARI: I was scared. I didn't know what was going to happen in my life because, you know, I was in, like, advanced classes and everything. COLOMBINI: Teens in the program also meet with parents of kids who died in shootings. They visit hospitals and funeral homes, all to drive home the painful consequences of gun violence. The program was started last year by the nonprofit Safe & Sound Hillsborough. Freddy Barton is executive director.
BARTON: Everyone can have an opportunity to change their life. And so that's why we're trying to work with them as early as possible. COLOMBINI: His program tackles root causes of gun violence like family trauma and poverty. Participants get anger management counseling. Mentors help them continue their education and connect them with jobs.
COLOMBINI: Wright teaches the guys how to do things like tie a tie or he'll take them out bowling once in a while. One morning, Wright was working at the rec center when he got a phone call.COLOMBINI: A teen in their program was in a tough spot. He showed up to school even though his gun charge barred him from campus. His mom couldn't leave work to come get him, so he called Wright.COLOMBINI: Wright was busy but knew if he left the kid hanging, he could get in trouble again.
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