Week of March 22, 2017 Vol 52 • No 01 • www.thechicagocitizen.com
CHURCH: WEEKLY INSPIRATIONS FROM REV. DR. DERRICK B. WELLS Weekly
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AT&T CELEBRATES THE POWER OF SISTERHOOD WITH LUVVIE AJAYI
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FIGHTING CRIME WITH COMPASSION New program helps fight the destructive effects associated with gun violence
Senator Jacqueline Collins goes one-on-one with the Citizen to discuss a new anti-violence program focused around community trauma centers. By Christopher Shuttlesworth
Q&A
A new anti-violence program focused around community trauma centers will aim to address the destructive effects of gun violence now that a measure co-sponsored by State Senator Jacqueline Collins has been signed into law. The legislation, which was Senate Bill 2872 in the 99th General Assembly, tasks the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority with assisting in the implementation of trauma recovery services for violent crime victims in underserved communities with high-levels of violent crime. Programs would tackle problems like behavioral health treatment, financial recovery, family support and relocation assistance, and advice for navigating the legal system, according to
a press release. The Chicago Citizen interviewed Sen. Collins about the antiviolence programs, the benefits of the programs and the severity, reality and trauma faced after gun violence. Citizen Senator, in what ways do you feel the new anti-violence programs will help with the trauma of gun violence? Collins Gun violence is more than just a mortal wound to the body. It also inflicts great wounds on the community by disrupting stability, forcing families into the hospital, prison, or court systems, and inflicting financial hardship that carries over to so many other parts of life. These problems create a vicious cycle where
> SEE FULL Q&A ON PAGE 3
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