Advocates stress the need for support in addressing gun violence among Cincinnati’s youth

CINCINNATI — Tackling youth gun violence at transit bus stops remains a top priority for Cincinnati leaders.

Activist Iris Roley said teen violence is still a big problem in Government Square and Oakley Station, but it will take the community coming together to keep students safe and get guns off the streets.

“There are major opportunities where we can help children and their families,” Roley said. “People have to step in, systems have to step in, and they want to really work for families and their children.”

Multiple community agencies are working on solutions to come together and support every student. last month, The Cincinnati City Council approved $50,000 for safety initiatives, including providing meals and resources to students.

​“Whether you stay in these communities or don’t get involved because these are violent issues … youth violence is everybody’s problem,” said Derrick Rogers, director of the Community Partnership Center at the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio.

Roley said the need is still huge — many of these students don’t have access to food, affordable housing and things that would help their children and families.

“I think we’re one of the few cities in the country that still does that open enrollment, where kids on the west side are looking for something on the east side,” Roley said.

Talbert House and UMADAOP got involved. City Gospel Mission also provides free nutritious meals to students every Wednesday, and the Urban League of Southwest Ohio meets children in classrooms through its Urban Champions program. The program promotes advocacy, workforce development, mental health and post-secondary education.

“We have a school-wide 10-week program throughout the school year where we take a cohort and they get the experience in all four pillars. We’ve been on college tours this year,” Rogers said. “We are on our way to Kentucky State next week with other students. And then we have a mental health podcast where it’s led by young people and they talk about, we create a safe space and talk about things that are important to them.”

Community leaders invite anyone who wants to help to come and volunteer.