In 2008, the city of Los Angeles began its Summer Night Lights program, aimed at keeping area parks open later, and providing activities for young people. Recently, it was announds that the program will be expanded.
“That [first] year, gang crime in the surrounding neighborhoods dropped 17 percent; homicides declined by 86 percent; and aggravated assaults by 23 percent, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Officials said it was the city’s safest summer since 1967.” [Source: The Daily Breeze (CA)]
The number of parks was doubled in 2009, and activities included basketball and soccer; acting workshops; and movie nights.
Labels: prevention, community, gangs
Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton