KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety has launched a Gun Amnesty Program, which they say will offer residents a safe and anonymous way to dispose of unwanted firearms.
KDPS officials say the initiative is part of their ongoing efforts to prevent gun related violence and keep the community safe by reducing the number of firearms at
risk of falling into the wrong hands.
In partnership with six local faith-based organizations, KDPS has established secure, anonymous drop-off locations where residents can surrender firearms for collection and disposal without fear of judgment or penalty.
“This program allows us to collaborate with the community to reduce the risk of gun violence,” said Chief David Boysen. “Our goal is to offer residents an easy and secure way to dispose of firearms, contributing to a safer Kalamazoo.”
Pastor Greg Jennings, who helps lead this initiative, said the program is “a good example of community organizations working together with law enforcement to help the city in combatting gun violence.”
To participate in the program, residents must first contact one of the seven participating locations to schedule a drop-off appointment. Once scheduled, they can bring the firearm, regardless of its type, make, model, caliber, or condition, to the agreed drop-off site. Each location provides secure firearm cases and locks to ensure proper handling during the process.
At the appointment, the individual will place the firearm inside the provided case and a staff member will secure it with a lock. The location will then immediately notify KDPS to pick up the weapon.
To maintain the program’s anonymous nature, pastors, staff members, or officers will not ask for any identifying information about the individual surrendering the firearm. After retrieval, the firearm will be transported to KDPS headquarters for documentation and disposal.
Participating Drop-off Locations:
Progressive Deliverance Ministries (PDM)
1527 N. Edwards Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007
(269) 342-5577
Word Harvest Ministries
1821 N. Burdick Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49007
(269) 808-3041
Allen Chapel AME Church
804 W. North Street Kalamazoo, Michigan, 49007
(269) 385-2934
Holy Temple COGIC
1420 E. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI, 49048
(269) 254-6164
Bethany Reformed Church
1883 S. Burdick Street, Kalamazoo, MI, 49001
(269) 344-6151
Seasons of Change Church
1323 Lane Boulevard, Kalamazoo, Michigan, 49001
(269) 903-8214
Click to watch the program video.
Comments