- Published: Tuesday, May 10, 2022 02:41 PM
CHICAGO – Coinciding with Mother’s Day on May 8 and the Mexican community’s celebration of Mother’s Day on May 10, State Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas attended the Israel Gifts of Hope gathering with mothers who have lost children to gun violence.
“The Israel Gifts of Hope gathering exemplified the message of ‘Hope, Love and Peace’ by providing families and friends a space to grieve and commemorate their lost loved ones,” said Pacione-Zayas (D-Chicago). “Mother’s Day can be a difficult time for many, and I was honored to take part in this day with people fighting to make a difference in the lives of families.”
Israel Gifts of Hope Foundation was founded by the parents and siblings of Israel Aragon Jr. after he was tragically killed due to gun violence. The foundation works to support the family and friends of victims of violence in Chicago communities by bringing together people who have gone through similar situations to spread awareness and give hope to those who have suffered loss.
The gathering was held on May 7 in Drake Gardens, a community garden in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago. Alderwoman Rossana Rodriguez also co-sponsored the event.
“Violence in our communities leaves a hole in the lives of the families and loved ones of victims,” Pacione-Zayas said. “Truly addressing the root causes of violence means investing in our communities. Public safety means making sure every person has access to quality education, safe water, healthy food, and other resources necessary to support them from the time they are born onward.”
The Fiscal Year 2023 budget included increases in funding for various community-based programs including after school programing for teens, early childhood education and job training opportunities. Additionally, a law creating a Crime Reduction Task Force was recently signed.
For more information on the Israel Gifts of Hope Foundation and additional violence prevention and response services, visit here.
