Support Services Provided To Residents Traumatized By Bloody July 4th

CHICAGO — The City of Chicago will activate an emergency assistance center for residents impacted by the violent July 4th weekend that saw 109 people shot and 19 killed by gunfire.

An Emergency Services Assistance Center is scheduled to open Tuesday, July 9 to support people impacted by gun violence. The ESAC will be open from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at Fosco Park, 1312 S. Racine Ave., near a mass shooting in Little Italy where eight people were wounded Friday evening.

“When we think about this type of behavior we think about the people in those communities,” Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling said during a news conference Monday. “It is important that we provide some type of comfort for those people who are going through [gun violence] on a daily basis.”

>>> 19 Killed, 109 Hurt In Shootings Across Chicago During 4th Of July Weekend

Crime victims service teams will partner with community organizations to provide support, resources, services and information to those who need it. Services are free and people do not have to provide a police report to receive them.

Anyone who is affected by violence both directly and indirectly, is encouraged to visit the center to receive information that includes crisis counseling.

“We are ready to service anyone in need of assistance, whether that trauma was experienced this weekend, last month or years ago,” said Glen Brooks, CPD director of community policing. “This also includes domestic abuse.”