San Francisco launches community response protocol for gun violence aftermath

The San Francisco County government meeting held on July 4, 2025, focused on the city’s response to gun violence and the implementation of a trauma response protocol. The meeting featured a presentation by Stephanie Felder, the Director of Comprehensive Crisis Services, who outlined the city's efforts to address the impact of gun violence on the community.

Felder began by acknowledging the challenges faced by victims of gun violence and the importance of providing timely support. She highlighted a resolution passed by the Board of Supervisors on May 24, 2022, which mandated the creation of a protocol to respond to gun-related community trauma within 90 days. This protocol includes outreach efforts to individuals living within a one-block radius of gun violence incidents, ensuring that community members are informed and connected to available resources.

The presentation detailed the significant impact of gun violence in San Francisco, particularly among youth, with 85% of those affected identified as Black. Felder noted that a quarter of the city’s homicides over the past five years occurred in these communities, underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions.

Felder outlined four main types of interventions designed to support those affected by gun violence:

1. **Social and Health Services**: This includes case management, hospital-based violence prevention programs, and mental health services provided by various organizations.

2. **Direct Community Outreach**: Engaging the community through town hall meetings and dialogues to foster communication and support.

3. **Public Awareness of Victim Services**: Efforts to raise awareness about available services through online directories and campaigns.

4. **Coordination of Victim Service Providers**: Improving referral mechanisms and collaboration among service providers to ensure comprehensive support.

The meeting also addressed the current notification system for responding to gun violence incidents, which involves coordination between the police department and various health services. Felder emphasized the importance of community support, peer support, and psychological first aid as critical needs identified by those impacted by shootings.

In conclusion, Felder shared that the Department of Public Health has engaged community partners and city agencies to develop a response protocol, incorporating feedback from stakeholders. The key themes identified included the necessity for on-site responses and culturally responsive services, reflecting the community's needs and existing efforts. The meeting underscored the city’s commitment to addressing the trauma caused by gun violence and enhancing support for affected communities.