We’ve seen that tidying up our neighborhoods can make them safer. That’s why, from June to October 2024, the Safe Steps Northwest initiative will provide weekly block cleaning services to 335 residential blocks in Germantown and Mt. Airy, which have recently been affected by gun violence.

We’re excited to begin work with Reverend W. Douglas Banks, who will lead the project rollout! Stay tuned for cleaning crew job openings and collaboration opportunities.

Senator Art Haywood taking part in a block cleaning. March 26, 2024 Photo courtesy of James Robinson | Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus.

This initiative is made possible by funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s 2022 Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant Program. It is a joint effort involving Mount Airy CDC, the litter cleaning service Glitter, State Senator Art Haywood, and Germantown United CDC. We are honored to serve as project advisors and support community engagement efforts in our area.

Visit the project website to learn more at shareglitter.com/safesteps.

And, check out this recent article in the Philadelphia Inquirer to learn more about the research behind this community clean-up approach to reducing gun violence.

State Senator Art Haywood spoke at the project’s launch at Waterview Recreation Center along with Mt. Airy CDC Executive Director Philip Dawson, Germantown United CDC Executive Director Emaleigh Doley, an officer of the 14th District, a Germantown resident, and representatives from Glitter, including Program Manager Douglas Banks. Photo Courtesy of Mt. Airy CDC.