© 2024 All Rights reserved WUSF
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Growing Up With Guns

More children in Florida are getting their hands on guns. And even if they don't intend to use those weapons for violence, it can have serious consequences for them and their communities. Health News Florida's Stephanie Colombini has been exploring the way guns can endanger kids' lives and futures.
illustration of children

Part 1: Gun Arrests

A group of teens sit at tables inside a community center. Two adults are in the front of the room speaking to them.
Stephanie Colombini
/
WUSF
In the first part of our series Growing Up With Guns, we look at Hillsborough’s Youth Gun Offender program. It's tackling crime by offering teens mentorship, education and mental health services.

Part 2: Gun Reform

Man stands with other gun safety advocates at a rally
Octavio Jones
/
WUSF
Community leaders say the recent shooting in Tampa's Ybor City highlights the need to curb gun violence among young people. Advocates are calling for more resources to combat the problem.

Part 3: Gun Victims

Man sits on a bench at a cemetery. He is in front of his late son's tombstone and wearing a t-shirt with his son's face on it.
Octavio Jones
/
WUSF
These parents are still struggling with grief years after their kids died in shootings. They say families affected by community violence need more support.

Part 4: Gun Wounds

A boy working out on a gym machine
Gun violence is the leading cause of death for children in the United States. And even when kids survive, there can be life-altering consequences. There’s been an increase in youth gun injuries in Florida in recent years.