Everglades Celebrates Safe Communities Month

This is a small community with a long history of drug problems. There is one school PreK - 12 with 152 students. During National Night Out, deputies and community members set up a lemonade stand in areas of known drug problems. Deputies grill hot dogs and spend the evening with the residents. Youth activites are available after school as well as a youth summer camp. The Police Activites League provides activities and sports equipment, school supplies and other items for area youth. PAL also sponsors Shop With A Cop every year, not only to provide Christmas for area youth that might go without, but it also fosters a positive relationship between the youth and law enforcement. The sheriffs office sponsors Do the Right Thing and teachers and residents are encouraged to nominate youth for good deeds. Red Ribbon Week is celebrated in October. Students participate in a poster contest and a Reality Journey. The local churches sponsor youth groups. A Community Safety Team has been formed by the sheriffs office to address the areas of concern and need. Once an issue is identified, the community, (law enforcement, school, churches, businesses, organizations and citizens) work together to resolve the issue. Operation Medicine Cabinet is held twice a year to encourage families to rid their homes of uneeded or outdated prescription drugs. The city sponsors several picnics and other family oriented events each year. Individuals and businesses are recognized for thier contributions and involvment. We are in the planning stages for many activities this year to stand together as a community to rid the streets of drugs and criminals.