Free gun lockbox giveaway at Burien Town Square on Friday, June 6

In recognition of National Gun Violence Awareness Day on Friday, June 6, Public Health – Seattle & King County is teaming up with local cities and community organizations to distribute free gun lockboxes across King County, with a strong focus on South King County.

Events will take place in Burien, Kent, Auburn, Renton, Federal Way, and Skyway, offering residents free gun lockboxes, safety education, and a chance to hear from local leaders and public health experts.

“This recent reduction in incidents of gun violence is encouraging,” said Eleuthera Lisch, Director of the Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention. “But rates of gun violence are still far too high and we have more work to do. Everyone has a role to play in preventing gun violence.”

Lockboxes will be available while supplies last. The goal is to promote safe storage as a tool to prevent both community violence and accidental shootings in homes.

South King County Lockbox Giveaway Events – Friday, June 6:

• Burien: 4 – 5:30 p.m., Burien Town Square, 400 SW 152nd Street (hosted with Progress Pushers)
• Kent: 2:30 – 4 p.m., Kent City Hall Square, 220 4th Ave S (hosted with Community Passageways)
• Auburn: 4 – 5:30 p.m., Auburn City Hall, 25 W Main St (hosted with the City of Auburn)
• Federal Way: 4 – 5:30 p.m., Federal Way Community Center, 876 S 333rd St (hosted with Progress Pushers)
• Renton: 1 – 2:30 p.m., Renton Community Center, 1715 Maple Valley Hwy (hosted with Freedom Project)
• Skyway: 3 – 5 p.m., Grocery Outlet parking lot, 11656 68th Ave S (hosted with Urban Family)

According to data from the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, gun violence in the region — especially in South King County — has seen a decline. In the first quarter of 2025, shots fired incidents dropped 37% compared to the same period last year.

Lisch emphasized the importance of locking up firearms, saying it not only prevents theft and misuse but can also save lives. “If you own a firearm, it’s vital that you store it locked whenever it’s not in use,” she said.

The initiative is part of the county’s broader Lock It Up program, which encourages all gun owners to store firearms securely at home and in vehicles.

More information on the Lock It Up program can be found at the Public Health – Seattle & King County website here.