Mayor's Press Release
Mayor Turner Hosts Successful One Safe Houston Community Day to Connect with Young People in the Houston Community
August 11, 2023 -- Focusing on young people and preparing children for school, Mayor Sylvester Turner and the One Safe Houston Advisory Committee hosted the first One Safe Houston Community Day to align with the youth outreach goals of the crime reduction initiative.
The event targeted youth ages 7 to 18. It included a backpack giveaway, health screenings, immunizations, and resources and information to help young people prepare for a safe and successful school year.
“It is all about the kids. If you want a safe city, you must invest in our young people and provide them with resources and support,” said Mayor Turner.
In February 2022, Mayor Turner launched the One Safe Houston crime reduction initiative, which focuses on four key areas:
- Violence Reduction and Crime Prevention
- Crisis Intervention, Response and Recovery
- Youth Outreach Opportunities
- Key Community Partnerships
While the media has reported extensively on the mayor’s successful gun buybacks and the Houston Police Department’s overall crime reduction throughout the city, this is the first time One Safe Houston held an event solely aimed at connecting with young people in the community.
The One Safe Houston Community Day at the Tidwell Community Center in Northeast Houston featured dance performances, face painting, games, and lunch provided by McDonald’s. The Houston Police and Fire Departments displayed many of their tools of the trade while officers and firefighters spent time speaking with young people. Police Chief Troy Finner and Fire Chief Sam Pena participated in the pre-event ceremony and backpack distribution. The Houston Astros provided rally towels, and the Houston Dynamo donated soccer balls for people who attended the One Safe Houston Community Day.
“These types of programs are how we prevent crime, making sure that kids have what they need when they go back to school. That is how we prevent crime,” said District B Councilmember Tarsha Jackson.
Overall, the mayor’s first One Safe Houston Community Day proved successful, with hundreds of children and their families attending the event.
“They are all of our kids, and that’s why we are here,” said Mayor Turner. “We want to encourage and support young people as they learn to navigate life, not just the classroom.”
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