On May 28, 2025, a government meeting in Prince George's County focused on addressing gun violence and youth intervention programs, highlighting the importance of early engagement with at-risk youth. The discussions centered around the SENS program, which aims to provide support to families and youth before they face legal charges, particularly through referrals from the Department of Juvenile Services.

Key speakers emphasized the need for proactive outreach to schools and families, encouraging them to seek help as soon as they notice signs of behavioral issues in their children, such as skipping school or defiance. The goal is to intervene early, allowing the program to assist families in navigating challenges before they escalate into legal problems.

Oricia Madison, manager of the children's youth and families division, clarified that while participation in the SENS program is not mandatory, it serves as a crucial step for youth at risk of receiving charges. The program is designed to be a supportive resource, with the potential for referrals from various entities, including truancy courts.

Despite the program's capacity to handle more cases—each case manager can manage 20 to 25 cases, yet currently averages only 10—the speakers noted that the program is underutilized. They expressed a desire for increased awareness and advertising of the SENS program to ensure more families can benefit from its services.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to addressing youth-related issues and gun violence through preventive measures, aiming to create a safer environment for families in Prince George's County. As discussions continue, the focus will remain on enhancing outreach efforts and ensuring that families are aware of the resources available to them.