Who: Columbus Property Management (CPM), a member of Mission First Housing Group, and its residents, in partnership with the Church of The Advocate, Philadelphia Police Department, Town Watch Integrated Services, North Central Victims Services, North City Congress, and the Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee.

What: Along with the rest of the county for National Night Out (NNO), CPM Residents will receive information on safety and crime prevention and community resources such as:

• Helpful tips on how to stay safe
• How to become a Block Captain
• How to become more involved in keeping the community safe and clean
• Where to go for help
• How to create a town watch group

They will also celebrate with activities such as face painting, balloon art, music and giveaways; as well as enjoy free food.

When: TODAY, August 5, 2014 from 1 pm-3 pm

Where: Church Of The Advocate, 1801 W. Diamond St., Philadelphia, PA 19121

Why: NNO was introduced in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch, a non-profit organization dedicated to the development and promotion of various crime prevention programs including neighborhood watch groups, law enforcement agencies, state and regional crime prevention associations, businesses, civic groups, and individuals, devoted to safer communities.

NNO is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Press Ops:

Interview with LaShea Davis, Resident Services Manager, CPM
Interviews with participants/affordable housing residents of CPM
Photos of residents enjoying a safe night out in their community

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Mission First Housing Group develops and manages affordable, safe and sustainable homes for people in need, with a non-profit, mission-driven focus on the most vulnerable. We ensure our residents have access to resources to help them live independently. We deliver housing that provides long-term benefits to residents and neighborhoods, alike. Mission First is a full-service real estate organization developing high-quality, green community assets across the Mid-Atlantic region. Mission First currently provides affordable housing and services to nearly 3,000 people in over 2,500 units, serving low income populations that include veterans, elderly and the disabled. More information at www.missionfirsthousing.org.