In the latest update from Squirrel News, we explore the remarkable transformation of Palo Alto – once labeled the “murder capital” of the US – now celebrating the milestone of zero recorded homicides, South Korea taking a compassionate stand by outlawing the dog meat trade, and a pioneering “no-blame” solution to bullying offering a fresh approach to fostering understanding and empathy.
East Palo Alto’s transformation from “murder capital” to zero homicides
In 1992, East Palo Alto earned the grim title of the “murder capital” of the U.S., with a staggering 42 homicides in its compact 2.5 square miles. Fast forward to 2023, and a recent report from the East Palo Alto Police Department reveals a remarkable turnaround: the city recorded zero homicides.
Minneapolis sees a 36% reduction chronic homelessness in two years
Hennepin County, Minnesota, has successfully reduced its most vulnerable street population by nearly 36% within a span of just two years – thanks to a combination of funding, deep community engagement and a housing-first approach.
South Korea passes bill banning production and sale of dog meat
South Korea’s parliament has voted to ban the production and sale of dog meat in a decision campaigners hailed as a historic victory for animal welfare. The country’s national assembly voted to ban the breeding, butchery, distribution and sale of dogs for meat after years of pressure at home and abroad.
New app can reduce debilitating impact of tinnitus, say researchers
MindEar delivers CBT through a chatbot along with sound therapy, allowing the brain to learn to tune out the condition and helping people to reduce their emotional connection to the sound.
Boosting access to healthcare in remote areas with portable X-ray machines
In a trial conducted in Scotland’s Orkney Islands from November 2021 to January 2022, the use of these devices addressed the issue of 73% of patients missing their X-ray appointments – primarily due to the prohibitive costs and time associated with reaching distant hospitals.
Sound maps a potential game-changer in predicting poachers’ movements
In South America’s Atlantic Forest, digital monitoring tools are providing a new approach to wildlife protection. The potential of sound-based maps is emerging as a cutting-edge solution to pinpoint and counter the looming threat of poaching.
New Mexico co-op initiates breakup with fossil fuels
While rural co-ops traditionally lag behind in the shift away from fossil fuels, Kit Carson is rewriting the narrative. Bucking the trend, members concerned about climate change are using the democratic governance of rural co-ops to spearhead the decarbonisation movement.
Counsellor-grandmothers in Zimbabwe are helping avert a mental health crisis
Since its inception in 2006, this impactful initiative has been challenging the shortage of psychosocial support and the surge of mental health challenges in Zimbabwe.
The “No-Blame” approach proves counterintuitive yet remarkably effective. This method involves enlisting the assistance of bullies themselves to collaboratively solve the problem, ushering in a unique and transformative approach to tackle the pervasive issue of bullying.
