BEND, Ore. – Antioch Church hosted its fourth annual Guns to Gardens event on Saturday, providing a safe and innovative way for local residents to dispose of unwanted firearms. The initiative, part of a national movement aimed at reducing gun violence, saw 19 firearms decommissioned at the event, bringing the total number of firearms dismantled in Bend to 148 since the program’s inception in August 2023.

The Guns to Gardens program is designed to offer participants a secure method of turning in unwanted firearms without the fear of legal repercussions. Unlike traditional gun “buy-back” programs, this event focuses on decommissioning the firearms on-site and transforming the parts into garden tools, symbolizing a shift from violence to peace.

Though primarily serving seniors who no longer wished to keep their firearms, the event was open to all community members. Participants were given gift cards as a token of appreciation for their contributions, further incentivizing responsible gun disposal.

The event’s organizers emphasize the importance of reducing the risk of gun violence and preventing accidental shootings by removing unwanted weapons from homes. By targeting firearms that may no longer be in active use, the program seeks to minimize potential dangers and create a safer environment for everyone.

As the Guns to Gardens event continues to grow in popularity, organizers are already planning another gathering for the fall. The event’s impact, both in terms of the number of firearms decommissioned and the sense of community it fosters, is a testament to the effectiveness of this unique and peaceful approach to gun violence reduction.

With continued success, the Guns to Gardens initiative is expected to remain an integral part of Bend’s efforts to promote safety and peace within the community.