Camden GPS Program

Guidance, Preservation, and Support

Launched in 2010, the Camden GPS Program a hospital-based violence intervention program that works with Camden youth and young adults who are treated for injuries related to assaults or intentional violence. Using the Camden Health Database, the Coalition determined that between 2002 and 2008, there were 2,817 visits to Camden hospitals by patients aged 10-24 years times for injuries related to intentional assault (including gunshot wounds, stabbings, and beatings). The total charges for those visits added up to $21 million.  Similar to poorly managed chronic disease, violence poses a negative and unnecessary burden on the health system.  Using a patient-centered care management approach, the GPS Program works with young adults from Camden aged 10-24 years to strengthen family bonds and provide them with resources to deal with their injuries. The program aims to promote positive

alternatives to violence to reduce the risk of repeat injury and even retaliation.

A Hospital-Based Intervention Program

Studies of similar programs nationwide have shown that hospital-based violence prevention can help reduce the rates of hospital recidivism for retaliation and re-injury, and arrest for violent crimes. Working directly with the Center for Family Services, the program’s Intervention Specialist meets with

the patient, develops a relationship with the patient and his/her fam

ily, helps define personal needs and goals, and connects participants and their families with community resources and long-term support. The Intervention Specialist helps victims of violence redirect their lives to seek alternative behaviors and lifestyles, and avoid further conflicts.

Program Resources

By building relationships and partnerships with a variety of local service organizations, participants are connected to resources to help in their recovery.  Resources include:

  • Counseling
  • Anger Management
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Family Guidance
  • Health Access
  • Mentoring
  • Job Training
  • Job Placement
  • School Placement
  • GED/Alternative
  • Education
  • Legal Aid

For more information about the Camden GPS Program, please contact us.