With events to be held in various neighborhoods. KTVU is Amber Lee is live in Oakland. After attending the first event, Amber. >> Greg. Tonight’s event was held in West Oakland. Now, the city awarded grants to community groups to host gatherings to promote a safe environment. Roller skating in Oakland’s
Defremery Park on this night launches an effort by the city and community groups to provide free and family friendly events in various neighborhoods and commercial areas. It’s one of 120 community events designed to make the city safer. We know we must be innovative to create safer spaces and support our
Residents. The program is Activate Oakland. This event is called Panther Prowl, named for the group hosting this gathering. It’s one of 38 recipients of city grants totaling $320,000. That make these events possible. It’s benefiting us all who live here and work here. >> So I feel great about it, one
Man says skating has helped him cope with mental health issues and that gatherings such as this could benefit others. >> I had a problem with drinking in the past. Skating was my out to get away from myself and deconstruct really just self-imploding. So yeah, I can definitely attune it for the community here.
>> City officials say they received more than 700 applications from community members and groups that wanted to participate in the program, and receive funding. One criteria is what impact the events will have on improving safety for neighbors. Organizers say it’s important parks are used in the way they’re intended.
>> If there’s activities that are harmful or they’re not friendly to families or children , either drug use or encampments or other activity that scare off the residents, then it doesn’t allow for the community to activate it. >> In addition to skating, Activate, Oakland will offer a variety of activities, including
Night markets. All the events are free. This is your town. >> These are your amenities. Go ahead and use them in the way they were intended. It brings out families. It helps to build community. >> City officials say there will be events every month through August 2020. For the next event
Is a toy giveaway scheduled for Saturday, December 23rd. For more information, go to KTVU. Com and click on Web links. Greg
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