In a recent virtual meeting of the Gun Violence Workgroup in Prince George's County, officials discussed the capacity and eligibility of youth programs aimed at reducing gun violence among young people. The meeting highlighted the pressing need for expanded services as the county prepares to welcome a new service provider on July 1, which will increase the program's capacity from 39 to 50 participants.

Currently, there is a waiting list for young people seeking assistance, indicating a demand that exceeds available spots. The discussion revealed that eligibility for the program requires participants to be under active supervision by the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS). This means that referrals can only come from youth already involved in the system, although officials noted that they are open to collaborating with community partners to assist at-risk youth who may not yet be in the system.

The meeting underscored the importance of addressing gun violence through targeted youth programs, as officials aim to scale up services to meet the needs of the community. With approximately 2,000 young people under supervision statewide, there is a clear opportunity for local initiatives to make a significant impact.

As the county moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that adequate resources are allocated to support these vital programs, ultimately aiming to create a safer environment for all residents. The workgroup's discussions reflect a commitment to addressing the root causes of gun violence and providing necessary support to at-risk youth in Prince George's County.