Dr. Michael Hirsch on Worcester’s “Guns to Gardens” Program
By-Hank Stolz
Photo-submitted
WORCESTER, MA-Dr. Michael Hirsch joined Talk of the Commonwealth to discuss the upcoming annual Guns to Gardens gun buyback program in Worcester, now entering its 24th year. Hirsch founded the program in 2002 with a public-health mission: to remove unsecured firearms from homes where they could contribute to accidental shootings, suicides, domestic violence incidents, or tragedies involving children.
Hirsch emphasized that the program is voluntary, non-confrontational, and not a challenge to the Second Amendment. Its purpose is to provide a safe disposal option for guns people no longer want in their homes. Over the past two decades, the initiative has collected nearly 5,000 firearms.
He outlined the logistics for the upcoming event, noting partnerships with the Worcester Police Department, the District Attorney’s Office, and police departments in Charlton, Fitchburg, Northborough, and Milford. Participants receive grocery store gift cards in exchange for surrendered weapons, and the buyback operates under a “no questions asked” policy with full amnesty.
The “Gardens” element remains one of the program’s most unique features: once collected, the guns are destroyed and forged into garden tools by blacksmiths and vocational students. These tools are later used in community gardens, turning symbols of violence into instruments of growth and nourishment.
In Worcester, drop-off locations and times include:
-
Worcester Police Headquarters — Saturday, 9 AM to 1 PM
-
10 Ararat Street (City Welding & Fabrication) — Saturday, 9 AM to 1 PM
Raising Cane’s Opens in Worcester, Leaders Share Culture Behind the Brand
The opening of Raising Cane’s newest Worcester location generated major buzz, but company leaders say the real secret behind the brand’s success isn’t the sauce — it’s the people and culture.
Worcester Railers COO Mike Myers on ECHL Labor Strike, Team Outlook, and Community Role
Worcester Railers leadership says games impacted by the recent ECHL labor strike were postponed—not canceled—and highlights new player additions, upcoming promotions, and a continued focus on community engagement.
Pediatric Flu Cases Surge in Worcester ERs, Doctors Urge Vaccination
Doctors at UMass Medical Center are reporting a significant surge in pediatric flu cases, with unusually high fevers sending concerned parents to emergency rooms across Worcester.
Radio Roundtable: Elections, Leadership Struggles, and Housing Dominate the Year
Panelists on Radio Worcester’s Political Roundtable debate the defining political stories of the year, from City Council elections and leadership struggles to housing, governance, and voter dissatisfaction.
Downtown Worcester Momentum Continues With New Restaurants, Retail, and Nightlife
Downtown Worcester continues to gain momentum as new restaurants, retail shops, and hospitality concepts open across the neighborhood, adding energy and variety to the city center.
City Manager Eric Batista Explains Worcester’s Tax Strategy, Infrastructure Challenges, and Winter Shelter Response
Worcester City Manager Eric Batista joined Talk of the Commonwealth to discuss tax policy, infrastructure challenges, recent water main breaks, and the city’s winter shelter response.
Angel Investor Tom Medrek Breaks Down the Deal Terms Every Founder Must Understand
Angel investor Tom Medrek joins AuxTalk to explain the investment terms founders must understand — from valuation and vesting to liquidation preferences and choosing the right investors.
Worcester Red Sox Holiday Care-A-Van Spreads Cheer Across Central Massachusetts
The Worcester Red Sox wrapped up their annual Holiday Care-A-Van with three days of visits to nonprofits, hospitals, schools, and community organizations — bringing gifts, meals, and time to those who need it most.
Bay State Bank Warns of Increased Financial Scams During the Holiday Season
Lauren Piehl, Financial Empowerment Officer at Bay State Bank, warns consumers about increased holiday scams and explains how to avoid phishing, fake delivery texts, and financial fraud.
Molly McCullough, Planting the Seed Foundation’s 2025 Toy Drive
Planting the Seed Foundation brings back its Annual Holiday Toy Drive — over 50 years strong — providing gifts to thousands of Worcester children. Join the celebration and help ensure teens aren’t forgotten this holiday season.
How Jess Lynch Is Empowering AI-Native Founders Through FoundersEdge VC
Jess Lynch, co-founder of Founders Edge, shares her unconventional career journey from forensic accountant to startup founder to venture capitalist — and how she’s helping experienced entrepreneurs build AI-native companies with the power of community and financial optionality.
Nick Lazzaro Announces Run for 7th Worcester District State Rep Seat
Millbury Selectman, School Committee member, and business owner Nick Lazzaro has launched his campaign for State Representative in the 7th Worcester District. He emphasizes affordability, small business support, and government transparency as key issues driving his challenge to longtime incumbent Paul Frost.
ABOUT
Discover the captivating world behind the scenes of local shows on Radio Worcester. At Radio Worcester, we go beyond just talking about what's happening in Central Massachusetts. We take pride in bringing you a uniquely local perspective on national politics, global affairs, and the rest of Massachusetts.
Our talented hosts and dedicated team work tirelessly to produce thought-provoking discussions, lively debates, and engaging content that truly reflects the pulse of our community. With an intimate knowledge of the region, our hosts bring their unique perspectives to the table, ensuring an authentic listening experience. Join us in celebrating the power of genuine conversations and the magic of community-driven radio.
Turn to Radio Worcester for the information you need to stay up to date on all things Worcester and central Massachusetts!
CONNECT
RADIO WORCESTER STUDIOS
Summit Street (Behind Polar Park)
Worcester, MA 01610.