Chester has launched Operation Safe Summer, featuring several planned community block parties that are helping to reduce the number of shootings in the city, writes Shawnette Wilson for Fox 29.
The Sunday Fun Day parties, held throughout the summer, are uniting the community and law enforcement.
“I really do think this was a good idea for our children because half the time they’re just roaming the streets and they don’t really have nothing to do,” said 24-year-old Zamaj Thomas, who joined a gathering in his Chester neighborhood.
The events curb crime, strengthen community relationships, and give kids a chance to splash around on water slides, enjoy a moon bounce, and eat water ice and hot dogs on the grill from Big Var’s, a Chester favorite.
Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer is collaborating with Chester Police and the Chester Partnership for Safe Neighborhoods to make Sunday Fun Days happen.
The events also teach parents and other adults about their role in enforcing the city’s 9 PM summer curfew for youth under 18 by keeping children safe at home.
Chester shootings have been reduced by 54 percent over the last four years, Stollsteimer said.
Find out more about Chester’s block parties at Fox 29.
