Peacemaker program linked to 61% decline in gun violence deaths and injuries
A new study by researchers at UC Berkeley's Center for Global Healthy Cities, published in JAMA Network Open, found that the California city of Richmond's Office of Neighborhood Safety (ONS) was responsible for a 61% reduction in the city's firearm homicides and injury shootings over the past 14 years.
A recent study from UC Berkeley's Center for Global Healthy Cities has found that Richmond, California's Office of Neighborhood Safety (ONS) Peacemaker Fellowship program has led to a 61% decline in firearm homicides and injury shootings over the past 14 years. The program, which began in 2010 and employs street outreach workers to mentor and support individuals involved in gun violence, has consistently outperformed national firearm violence declines.
According to lead author Alice Bruno, the program's sustained impact can be attributed to its public health approach and the positive changes in the lives of participants. Despite a reduction in police officers and increased challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, Richmond maintained lower firearm violence rates compared to other cities in the Bay Area and nationwide.
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