Neighborhoods around Pittsburgh are preparing for National Night Out, an event focused on building positive community and police relations.
Aggie Brose, Deputy Director of the Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation, said organizers in those communities plan to hand out safety essentials, in addition to fostering community building.
“We’re gonna have a disc jockey, there will be face painting and lots of other children’s activities,” she said. “We’re going to be giving out light bulbs, to light up their porches and safety locks for their guns.”
The Waterfront in Homestead will also offer events and programs for the National Night out.
“Come out and bring your children or grandchildren or nieces or nephews and be prepared to have a great time,” said Waterfront General Manager Carey Kann. “At the waterfront we’re only concerned with putting on a great family event in a friendly, clean, safe environment.”
In light of recent police shootings, many communities plan to place extra emphasis on communication between residents and officers.
Jeffrey Crawford, a community resource officer in Bloomfield, said events like National Night Out can foster mutual understanding.
“With knowing their police officers and other officers in the community, you get a trust factor,” Crawford said.
Neighborhoods participating are asked to register online so emergency services can properly plan for the event.
The National Night Out is Tuesday, Aug. 2.
