Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - "We are doing as well as can be expected. We are surrounding Ramone's mother. She is getting a lot of support, but of course
our hearts are broken," said Mia Ayers-Goss, Executive Director of MVP (Most Valuable Parents).
Ayers-Goss joined WBEN on Tuesday, just days after the horrific shooting
that took the life of 3-year-old Ramone Carter on Domedian Avenue in Buffalo's Schiller Park neighborhood Friday night.
She updated the community on grieving mother Shakenya Griffin,
who has been a member of MVP for the past few years.
"I can tell you they are struggling, as anyone would be. They are relying on God and their support system to get through this," Ayers-Goss said.
Gun violence has impacted many families, including Ayers-Goss'.
"My daughter was shot twice and my son was shot twice. Fortunately, they are both still with me, but the trauma is definitely still there," she said.
Those events motivated her to lead the parenting and community group.
Has it changed the way you approach everyday life?
"It does. Some people get shut off and react in a negative way. Others use it to motivate them in a more positive way. It helps me by making a difference," Ayers-Goss said.
She says standing on the sidelines and saying, "Oh that's tragic. Oh that's sad," is not enough.
"We need people to get involved. A lot of people think this is just an inner city problem. Guns are an everybody problem," Ayers-Goss said. "We need people who are in the suburbs and inner city to come together and do something. There are many things people can do. You don't even have to leave your home. We need people to get involved."
Ayers-Goss is asking the community to join MVP. Click HERE. You can call 585-JoinMVP. She is also giving her mobile number (716)-335-3640.
If anyone wants to help Shakenya Griffin, you can make a donation through the Cash App at $Fomby30.
The organization is also starting a restorative basketball league and is looking for sponsors. You can contact MVP HERE.
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