Emergency assistance center for victims of violence opening Tuesday on Chicago's West Side
CHICAGO (CBS) — An emergency assistance center for victims of violence will open Tuesday on Chicago's West Side after a violent Fourth of July weekend of shootings killed 19 people and injured 87 others.
Chicago Police will host the emergency assistance center at Fosco Park, located at 1312 S. Racine Ave. on the Near West Side near one of the mass shooting scenes, from 3:30 p.m. until 7 p.m.
The center will accommodate victims of "any type of violence, including domestic violence," Chicago Police Director of Community Policing Glen Brooks said on Monday during a news conference.
The city is also launching Cycle Breakers at 5 p.m.
The program will work in communities across the city, focusing on several areas of need – including conflict resolution, restorative practices, culture wellness, mentoring, mental health, and crisis intervention.
In addition, the City of Chicago, Cook County, and the State of Illinois announced the launch of a new website, ILGovAlliance.org. The website is designed to share information on government investments in community safety and provide a central hub for community-based organizations to explore grant opportunities.
Mayor Brandon Johnson said Monday morning that he was "heartbroken" by the level of violence over the holiday weekend.
"These are not just numbers on pages. These are not just headlines in the news. No. These are our fellow Chicagoans. They're our neighbors, family members, who have lost their lives," Johnson said. "Over 100 people whose lives will never be the same, whose next chapter in life is recovery and healing from this violence. These 100 people are members of families and communities numbering in the thousands who are also feeling the devastation and the impact of the incessant violence in the city of Chicago."
