LEONARDTOWN, MD – A collaborative video initiative aimed at addressing the impact of gun violence in St. Mary’s County is set to premiere today at 4 p.m. on the Facebook pages and YouTube channels of both the St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office (SMCSO). This effort is part of the Group Violence Intervention (GVI) program, an ongoing collaboration between local health and law enforcement agencies focused on reducing violence through community-based strategies.
The video, featuring interviews with three local families affected by gun violence, sheds light on the complex impact of violence within the St. Mary’s County community. Key leaders from the SMCHD, SMCSO, and other GVI partners contribute insights on the multifaceted approach they are employing to reduce incidents of violence and increase community trust.
The GVI Program represents a coordinated response by local agencies and community partners to address gun violence as both a public health and public safety issue. The program’s objective is to lower crime rates, reduce arrests and incarcerations, and offer alternative solutions to conflict and violence.
“Violence deeply impacts families and close-knit communities such as ours,” said Dr. Meena Brewster, St. Mary’s County Health Officer. “The GVI Program addresses some of the contributing factors to violence and focuses on helping people make safer and healthier decisions.”
Sheriff Steve Hall echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative approaches to curb gun violence at every level: “When you consider the damage being done by senseless gun violence in our country, state, and county, it begs for new thoughts, new strategies, and new forces to effect change,” Hall stated. “This is GVI for us. It is stepping into the homes of those involved in or suspected of being involved in gun violence to change their thinking and behavior. Speaking directly to those at risk of being involved in violent crime may be the catalyst to help them see their God-given potential and value to our community. This approach offers a path to redirect their lives and change the trajectory of gun violence. Nothing is more worthy of our collective efforts than this endeavor to save lives.”
Through its focus on intervention and prevention, the GVI Program seeks to provide critical support for individuals and families affected by violence while working to strengthen community resilience. By highlighting the personal and societal toll of violence, the video aims to encourage greater awareness and involvement from community members in fostering a safer environment for all residents.
This latest effort underscores the St. Mary’s County commitment to addressing gun violence through compassionate yet proactive measures that prioritize community health and safety. The video release today will serve as a reminder of the role that each community member plays in building a safer future.
For more information about violence prevention and related resources, visit smchd.org/vit.
