Police, City services, and community leaders will work together block by block, according to the new Strong Blocks / SAFE Communities wrap-around strategy, announced by Mayor Emanuel.
Historically, the same blocks have continued to be dangerous year after year. Taking back the blocks is a 1-2-3 strategy. First, the Chicago Police will target narcotics and gangs. Second, City services, such as graffiti removal and streetlight repair, will clean up the block. Third, community programs, such as after-school programs and family counseling, will rebuild the area.
In each community in the first wave of Strong Blocks, a steering committee of community members is working with the Police and City to target services and provide wraparound support for each Strong Block.
The strategy was developed as a signature feature of the City-County action plan to reduce violence and stabilize communities. Allstate fellows on loan and Civic Consulting staff are managing the plan pro bono and structuring the comm-unity leadership groups.
"This initiative will help loosen the vice grip of terror that has people living under siege in communities like Englewood," said Minister Johnny Banks Sr., Executive Director of A Knock At Midnight. "Immediate response and intervention will relieve residents of the burdens of the moment and allow community and faith based providers to help strengthen families and restore hope."
For more information, contact Alexander Gail Sherman.
