Stockton community unites to support mass shooting victims
In Stockton, organizations and church leaders are uniting to support the victims of the Nov. 29 mass shooting by offering resources and urging the community to focus on healing those impacted."They've experienced something that no family or no child or no one should be asked to experience," said Peter Elias of the Reinvent South Stockton Coalition.Efforts are being made to provide those directly impacted with whatever they need. "They appreciate diapers, a formula for their children," Henry Phillips, board president of the Amelia Ann Adams Whole Life Center, said. "They appreciate the mental health counseling. Some are requesting adequate clothing to help bury their loved ones."Phillips also noted the emotional impact of the tragedy. "Close to 150 people were at this party and to see all of those bullet holes in the wall and to hear about three slain children and a man—that just weighed heavily on my heart," Phillips said.Local leader Lecia Harrison, executive director of Be Smooth Inc. and Your Inner Peace Counseling, expressed frustration with the Youth Peace and Justice Foundation, questioning its legitimacy after it claimed to have brokered a 21-day gang ceasefire. Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi also questioned the group's claim. "I know that it's been an unnecessary distraction. You know, this is a tragedy, and I'm not from Stockton, but I've been here for more than 30 years, and I actually found it somewhat offensive," Harrison said.Phillips emphasized the importance of focusing on the victims rather than creating unverifiable narratives. "We should not blame victims. We should be seeking justice with the shooters," he said.KCRA reached out to the Youth Peace and Justice Foundation for more than a week, including Thursday, to speak with them, but they have declined interview requests. Those wishing to help provide resources to victims can reach out to the San Joaquin County Youth Justice Coalition.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
