Public Safety Agencies Unite for Crime and Drug Prevention Event

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                   July 29 , 2009

OLYMPIA – Community members are invited to join the Department of Corrections, Washington State Patrol, Olympia Police Department and Washington’s Military Department for a crime and drug prevention event Saturday at Sylvester Park in downtown Olympia.

The 26th annual National Night Out Against Crime is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for local anticrime efforts, strengthen community spirit and law enforcement-community partnerships and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. On Tuesday, Aug. 4 citizens across the country are encouraged to host evening block parties or other neighborhood events to support community involvement and safety.

“Strong communities are the key to protecting our neighborhoods against crime,” Governor Chris Gregoire said. “I encourage all Washingtonians to participate in the National Night Out Against Crime. Every person has a responsibility to keep their community safe from crime, and when we strengthen our partnerships with our neighbors and law enforcement officers, we are more effective at eradicating crime and violence in our neighborhoods.”

On Saturday the four agencies will help prepare Washington citizens for the Night Out Against Crime by hosting a free community safety event. There will be workshops on identity theft protection, home security and personal safety. 

“Community safety is our number one priority,” DOC Secretary Eldon Vail said. “We are proud to work with the State Patrol, Olympia Police and the Military Department to teach our citizens how to be safe in their homes and neighborhoods.”

Children’s activities will include fingerprinting and games. There will be free food and activities for all ages. The agencies are asking each person to bring one canned or non-perishable item to support the Thurston County Food Bank.

“We are responding to a call by our Governor to act locally and support our local food banks and communities in need wherever possible during these difficult times,” Vail said. “Now more than ever we need to work together in support of safer and healthier communities.”

WHAT: National Night Out Against Crime Lead-In Event

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, August 1

WHERE: Sylvester Park, downtown Olympia

WHO: Anyone interested in learning about keeping communities safe

COST: One canned or non-perishable food item for the Thurston County Food Bank

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Contact:  Belinda D. Stewart, Communications and Outreach Director (360) 725-8821



 


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