February 3, 2012 > Guns for gift cards Guns for gift cards Submitted By Alameda County Sheriff's Office Making Alameda County a safer place to live, work and attend school is a principal goal of the Alameda County Sheriff's Office. The agency, in partnership with the Deputy Sheriff's Activity League (DSAL) and Michael L. Emerson, a concerned Alameda County resident, will host a gun-exchange program to further the safety of residents. The gun-exchange program, which is scheduled for June 2012 at the Ashland Community Center, 1530 167th Avenue, San Leandro, will allow any adult to surrender an operable firearm in exchange for a gift card. The guns will be accepted on a "no questions asked" basis and be destroyed. Hundreds of guns can be removed from circulation to prevent them falling into the hands of criminals or gang members. These guns will never be the cause of an accidental, or intentional, shooting of a child or other victims. Private donations will fund the gift cards redeemed for this program. Considering the program's importance, the Alameda County Sheriff's Office invites individuals, businesses and other organizations to enhance the safety and security of the community by becoming sponsors and supporters of the program. Donations will be received by the Alameda County Deputy Sheriff's Activity League Inc. (Tax ID #83-0410537) and could qualify as a tax deduction per 501(c)3 of the California Tax Code. Checks and commitment letters should be marked for the attention of "Alameda County DSAL." Michael L. Emerson is working diligently to facilitate contributions towards this program; he can be reached at (510) 247-0777 when individuals, businesses and other organizations are ready to offer their support. Any assistance or donations for this cause are greatly appreciated. For more information about the gun-exchange program, contact Lieutenant Colby Staysa at (510) 667-3651.