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Trillium Health Resources is delivering 1,000 gun locks to all Departments of Social Services (DSS) within its 28 county region. They will be distributed to families who own firearms along with education about gun safety.

Gates County DSS staff recently hosted Sean Kenny, Head of Social Services Engagement at Trillium, as he delivered the gun locks.

According to North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), 116 North Carolina children died of a firearm related injury in 2021. Firearms are the leading cause of injury for children in North Carolina. Trillium is working to lower this statistic through this initiative.

“Staff in our DSS offices are crucial points of contact for many families. We thank them for this partnership to educate our communities on safe gun ownership to reduce tragic injuries to children. We also know that by restricting access to firearms we can lessen instances of successful suicide attempts,” stated Kenny.

Trillium’s One Community program started during the coronavirus pandemic to inform people of resources available for mental health services. One Community staff now concentrate on member outreach through health literacy and awareness.

“One Community at Trillium validates that our communities are only as strong as our people,” shared Patte Whitfield, One Community Director. “We participate in local events, sharing that support is always available. We also help explain about conditions and services to improve health literacy in our region. Everyone deserves the chance to live life to their fullest potential.”

Trillium looks forward to serving its 28 counties as a Tailored Plan starting April 1, 2023. To learn more, please visit their website.