BIG MAMA'S SAFE HOUSE
Help is not on the way; it's here!
The Full Story
About
On January 21, 2013, 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton proudly marched in President Obama’s second inaugural parade. Just one week later, she was tragically shot and killed on a playground in her hometown of Chicago. In response to her death, Hadiya’s friends chose to honor her by wearing orange, the color hunters wear to protect themselves and others from gunfire. What began as a tribute has grown into a national movement. Today, Wear Orange is observed every June to honor Hadiya's legacy and raise awareness about gun violence. Each year, thousands of people wear orange in solidarity with the over 46,000 Americans who lose their lives to gun violence and the nearly 97,000 who are injured by guns.
Wear Orange serves as both a memorial and a call to action, uniting communities, amplifying survivors’ voices, and demanding change.
Mission
Why Orange?
Big Mama's Safe House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating gun violence and supporting survivors. Their mission is to create safer communities by addressing the root causes of violence through a public health approach. This involves prevention, intervention, education, and community engagement. They provide safe housing, trauma counseling, and educational programs to foster healing and resilience.
The team also advocates for policy reform and collaborates with local leaders and grassroots organizations to promote gun safety and preventive measures. Their efforts aim to empower individuals and rebuild lives affected by gun violence, ensuring dignity and hope for a brighter future.
Vision
Big Mama's Safe House, Community Violence Intervention G.R.E.A.T. Team host GREAT Orange Balloon Release during WEAR ORANGE week. This event honors those affected by gun violence and celebrates efforts by those who are trying to end gun violence and create safer communities.
Join us in solidarity, hope and action save lives.
Help is not on the way; it's here!