Calling Upon the Managing Director to Coordinate the Delivery of Counseling Services to Families and Neighborhoods Affected by Violent Crime

WHEREAS, In an alarming manner, the murder rate and violent crime are soaring in our City; and

WHEREAS, According to the District Attorney’s Office, 80% of the homicides in this City are a result of gun shots; and

WHEREAS, The prevalence of guns not only results in the high murder rate, but also escalates the intensity of violent actions, and intensifies the fear of violence in our communities; and

WHEREAS, While the Police Department, the District Attorney’s Office, elected officials and neighborhood leaders are working hard to respond to the current epidemic of violence through aggressive enforcement, prosecution, and prevention strategies, still many Philadelphians are victims of crime; and

WHEREAS, A violent crime is a traumatic event for family and friends of the victim, as well as the perpetrator, and these tragic events trigger many extreme emotional reactions ranging from grief, anger and fear; and

WHEREAS, These acts of violent crime, also, greatly impact our communities causing neighbors, and nearby residents and businesses to feel vulnerable and afraid; and

WHEREAS, Law enforcement agencies are charged with gathering evidence and apprehending the perpetrators and do not have the resources or training to provide counseling and guidance in response to these traumatic events; and

WHEREAS, There is a critical need to provide grief counseling, calm fears, reassure neighbors and help our communities heal from these traumatic experiences; and

WHEREAS, There is also a need to insure the coordination of such services and enhance the responsiveness of government to our citizens who have experienced violent crime within their family and community; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we call upon the Managing Director to coordinate the delivery of counseling services to families and neighborhoods affected by violent crime.

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