National Night Out draws Freeport residents

Freeport residents joyfully gathered at Bishop Frank O. White Park on August 1 for the highly anticipated National Night Out event, engaging with first responders and showcasing the power of community unity. This nationwide initiative, with over 11,000 participating towns annually, aims to raise awareness about pressing issues such as violence, gang activity, and crime in local neighborhoods. The event brought together youth, parents, government officials, and law enforcement organizations, fostering a resilient and closely-knit community in their collective efforts to combat crime and violence.

The celebration featured a distinguished roster of hosts, including Mayor Robert Kennedy, County Legislator Debra Mulé, the Freeport Police Department, and numerous community stakeholders, all working diligently to ensure the event’s success. National Night Out, a longstanding tradition spanning four decades, serves as a crucial crime prevention and awareness initiative, promoting strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie for safer and more caring neighborhoods.

The event allowed residents to express gratitude and admiration for the local Police Department’s dedication to ensuring community safety, while also emphasizing the importance of hiring Freeport residents first to maintain a diverse and inclusive Police Department.

The gathering showcased the community’s spirit and commitment, with various local organizations like the League of Women Voters, Long Island Cares, the Roosevelt Prevention Coalition, Nurses from Mount Sinai South Nassau, and the South Shore Child Guidance Center setting up booths to educate residents about their essential missions and initiatives.