Trauma Center Recognized for Gun Violence Prevention by Los Angeles County Office of Violence Prevention

Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center was recognized in the Top 10 Awards for “Protecting and Saving Lives with Safety Locks” at the Los Angeles County 38th Annual Productivity and Quality Awards (PQA) Luncheon in October. The awards are hosted by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chief Executive Office Quality and Productivity Commission.

PVHMC was recognized alongside several community partners for their partnership with the LA County Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) in providing access to free firearm safety locks across the County. The hospital began receiving the gun safety locks from the OVP for free distribution in late 2024. It currently has boxes outside of its Emergency Department, accessible to community members, as well as inside of its Pediatric Inpatient Care Unit.

In 2022, more than 300 L.A. residents died by gun suicide and over 500 died after being shot with a gun. Proper handgun safety can play a crucial role in preventing gun deaths and gun violence.

“As a Trauma Center, we are no stranger to the devastating impacts of gun violence and accidents related to guns,” said Richard E. Yochum, FACHE, President/CEO of Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center. “We are proud to partner with the Office of Violence Prevention to promote safe and responsible gun ownership by offering these free gun locks.”

The Annual Productivity and Quality Awards (PQA) Program honors departmental productivity and quality improvement efforts deserving recognition. The 2025 Top Ten winners represent the County’s commitment to serve people and solve problems. From providing pet wellness services at parks, assisting individuals that are experiencing homelessness resolve legal barriers, and establishing a residential vocational training center designed to support transition-age youth, they represent the work of County employees, project teams, and community partners.

Learn more about PVHMC’s gun lock safety program here.