Communities across Maryland are receiving new resources to address gun violence through prevention, intervention, firearm safety, and support services.
In a press release, the Maryland Department of Health’s Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention awarded $1.36 million in grants to 17 organizations working to prevent and reduce gun violence statewide.
The grants support a range of community-based efforts involving local health departments, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies. Funded projects will focus on firearm safety, violence intervention, victim services, behavioral health support, and suicide prevention.
From the press release:
Gun violence is a public health epidemic, and every day we see the devastating effects it has in Maryland communities. These grants support partners in communities across the state to provide education, resources and support with the common goal of keeping Marylanders safe, said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani.
Several initiatives will promote the safe storage of firearms and distribute safety devices, such as gun locks, to help prevent accidental shootings and firearm-related suicides. Other projects will expand behavioral health and community resources for individuals and families affected by gun violence and strengthen the firearm surrender process associated with Domestic Violence Protective Orders.
The Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention was established in 2024 to coordinate a public health approach to reducing firearm violence and its impacts. The Center partners with state and local agencies, community organizations, and affected communities to develop and implement prevention and intervention strategies.
Click here to view the local health departments that were awarded funding for FY 2027.
