COLUMBUS (WCMH) – A recent rash of shootings has the Columbus community worried about violence and children getting caught in the crossfire.
“The loss of innocent life of some of our youngest residents in recent weeks is a stark reminder of the work we have left to do as a community to keep our community safe,” said Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther.
Today, the mayor is announcing safe spring break initiatives as solution to keep kids safe while school is out.
“Next week starts spring break so we need to provide the youth with safe places, safe spaces as well as activities outside of our schools, but in our neighborhoods to help them grow,” said Mayor Ginther.
From March 25 through April 1 there will be extended hours at city community centers. Applications for Purpose, Pride and Success (APPS) will offer programming from 7 to 11:30 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. There will be activities like soccer, basketball, a NCAA Final Four watch party and art programs.
There will also be “Pop Up Parties” at recreation centers with Radio One. The kick-off party will be after early-release Thursday, March 24 at the Linden Community Center, 1254 Briarwood, Columbus. More dates and locations will follow.
Programming such as reading, college prep and homework help, at Columbus Metropolitan Libraries will also be available.
The mayor is also asking residents to be vigilant in their own safety efforts like keeping porch lights on, starting neighborhood block watched and reporting crime.
He says police are also working to reduce violent crime by increasing patrols and focusing on gang activity.
Information on additional spring break programming by community groups and churches can be posted at:http://www.ccsoh.us/SafeSpringBreak.aspx.What others are clicking on: