ATLANTA — Multiple agencies across Atlanta have come together to address youth violence and law enforcement stigma in a sweet new way.
City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation Commissioner Justin Cutler said they launched a series of Popsicles in the Park events this summer, to offer a fun way for the community to connect with local law enforcement and first responders.
The events are held at different Atlanta parks throughout the summer, with free popsicles, music, and local resources on offer. Atlanta Police and Atlanta Fire also attend each event, to offer the kids toys and treats.
"This is part of how we fight crime at Atlanta Parks and Rec," Commissioner Cutler said. "By providing social opportunities for people to engage with their neighbors and get to know each other, they're less likely to commit violent activities."
Atlanta Police Major William Ricker said part of addressing the youth violence issue in Atlanta involves officers having positive interactions with young people at an early age.
"We have an issue with youth crime, and what better way to to kind of put an end to that than to catch them younger and younger and hopefully send them on a different path," Major Ricker said. “I want to make sure they understand that we're there to help them. We're not always out there arresting people.”
The Popsicles in the Park events are paid for by the Department of Parks and Recreation's general fund, Commissioner Cutler explained.
"We hope by meeting police officers, officers come across more as human beings," he said. "They have families. They're your neighbors."
It's a tiny treat to tackle a complex issue. But councilman Jason Winston – who brought his own children to the event – said he hopes it’s a start.
“It's very important for youth to be able to see police and fire and our public safety officials in a positive light, that it's not always something negative when they see them," he said.
The Popsicles in the Park events run through the end of August, at the following locations:
Popsicles in the Park (All events start at 5 P.M.)
- Thursday, July 20 @ Bessie Branham Park
- District 5
- Thursday, August 3 @ Candler Park
- District 6
- Thursday, August 17 @ Little Nancy Creek Park
- District 7
- Thursday, August 31 @ Atlanta Memorial Park
- District 8