Portsmouth, Va. (WAVY) — Stop the Violence 757 is hosting several initiatives that it hopes will help to end gun violence during gun violence awareness month.
On June 1, the anti-violence nonprofit organized a Bike Ride to End Gun Violence in Portsmouth.
“To see different people show up, it lets me know that it’s working,” said Monica Atkins, Stop the Violence 757 executive director. You have to have a heart to want to come out … to show up because it [seems] like nothing is changing. We are losing our babies rapidly,”
Atkins founded Stop The Violence 757 after her son was killed on Effingham Street ten years ago.
“Gun violence has hit my family about eight times,” Atkins said.
All month, loved ones can add pictures to the Stop the Violence billboard on High Street in Churchland.
For the first time, the non-profit will give out orange pinwheels.
“This is our way to stand in solidarity with those who have lost someone to gun violence,” said Lakeesha ‘Klu’ Atkinson, Stop the Violence 757 & Portsmouth Public Schools board member.
This Saturday, all are welcome to join the “bike ride to end gun violence” at Newport Plaza on 35th Street and Newport Avenue.
Learn more about how to get an orange pinwheel or join the bike ride on Saturday.
