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Orange County Board marks World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, World Refugee Awareness Day and Gun Violence Awareness Month
Summary
Supervisors and county agencies used the meeting to recognize three June observances: elder‑abuse awareness, refugee awareness and gun‑violence awareness; officials highlighted local statistics, resources and county programs including APS hotlines, OIRA services and gun‑safety initiatives.
The Orange County Board of Supervisors dedicated the morning to three recognition presentations: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, World Refugee Awareness Day and Gun Violence Awareness Month.
Board members and county agency leaders described programs and resources for each observance. Supervisors urged residents to report suspected elder abuse and cited Adult Protective Services’ role in investigating allegations and connecting victims to services. County speakers said Adult Protective Services received thousands of reports last year and encouraged use of the 24‑hour hotline and local partners to support seniors.
Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs director Jose Serrano celebrated OIRA’s first year of service and said the office has helped nearly 5,000 residents with referrals for housing, legal assistance, food and other resettlement needs. Serrano and supervisors highlighted immigrants’ contributions to the local economy and cultural life.
On gun‑violence awareness, the district attorney and supervisors described past county gun buybacks that collected hundreds of firearms and announced county programs to distribute free gun locks and promote safe storage. Carolyn McAuliffe, a volunteer with Moms Demand Action, thanked the board for declaring Gun Violence Awareness Month and encouraged community action to reduce preventable deaths.
Speakers emphasized outreach and prevention, and supervisors asked residents to contact county hotlines and partner agencies if they suspect abuse, need refugee assistance, or seek firearm safety resources. The presentations closed the morning’s ceremonial items before the board moved to its regular agenda.
