A gun buyback event in which residents can exchange their weapons for gift cards is taking place in Allentown.
The event, which is being coordinated by the Allentown Police Department, began Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Armory at 15th and Allen Streets and will last until 2 p.m.
It’s part of a collaborative effort between Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski and members of the Allentown City Council. It’s the city’s third gun buyback program in the last three years.
“Residents can rid of unwanted guns in the home safely and properly and get something useful and valuable in return,” said Pawlowski. “I’m very pleased that the members of City Council are partnering with the administration and the police department in this effort.”
During the event, Allentown Police officers will accept firearms in exchange for K-Mart gift cards. Anyone turning in a firearm must have a current photo ID. The firearm also must be unloaded.
Officers will give a $100 gift card to those who exchange functional weapons, $15 for non-functional weapons and $10 for a BB or Airsoft gun.
During Allentown’s last gun buyback event in May, over 40 weapons were turned in.
