Guns Handed Over In Mpls. Buyback To Be Used In Art Project

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A gun buyback will be held Saturday in Minneapolis, and the weapons collected will be used, after they are no longer operable, in an art project to raise the public's awareness to the devastation caused by gun violence.

The buyback is being put on by Pillsbury United Communities in collaboration with the city of Minneapolis. People will be able to anonymously turn in guns to two locations: Fire Station 14, on 2002 Lowry Avenue in north Minneapolis; and Fire Station 17, on 330 East 38th Street on the city's south side. The buyback will go from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Those who turn in firearms will get Visa gift cards (ranging from $25 to $300) depending on the condition of the gun.

The weapons taken in will be given to local artists to use in a project called "Art is My Weapon." (Artists interested in getting involved can learn more here.)

Minneapolis Police Chief Janee Harteau said this project will bring a personal and emotion edge to a problem that affects everyone in the city.

"The current cycle of gun violence requires a community solution," she said in a press release, "and this will be more than a conversation starter."

Donations for the gun buyback program can be made here.