Harrisburg mothers of gun violence victims were honored at last year’s “Saving Our Streets” event.
This weekend, community members and those affected by gun violence will gather in Harrisburg to bring awareness to the issue.
For the second year, Harrisburg resident Mercides Roland is holding “Saving Our Streets” at Italian Lake Park in Harrisburg on May 28. The event will honor local families of gun violence victims, as well as aim to educate the youth.
“I’m excited for the event and heartbroken at the same time,” Roland said.
The event, beginning at 5 p.m., will feature vendors, local community resources and kids’ activities.
The State Police and Harrisburg Police Bureau will attend to interact with residents, provide horse rides for children and participate in other activities, such as teaching gun lock safety.
“Our goal is to have the police interact with the community,” Roland said. “I feel like that’s important.”
Additionally, several Harrisburg mothers who have lost children to gun violence will speak at the event. Roland said that she identifies with these mothers, as her daughter was also a shooting victim, though she survived.
“It hurts me that there are so many killings and we are having to see the things the mothers are going through,” she said.
Also at the event, organizations like the YMCA-Greater Harrisburg and Youth Advocate Programs will share resources for community members in need of assistance. CPR training will be available on site.
“Last year, the community really came together,” Roland said. “This year, I’m even more excited.”
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