Crime prevention program conducted at schools

Kevin Kelshaw, Media Relations Officer with the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, informed Historic City News that Eddie Eagle made appearances at three elementary schools recently as part of the Weed and Seed Grant program.

As part of this years project, the West Augustine Community Weed & Seed Initiative is to promote crime prevention education to area youngsters.

Through partnerships with the Police Athletic League and the School resource deputies a Crime Prevention Program was held earlier this month at Webster, Osceola and Crookshank Elementary Schools.

The events were presented by the School resource Deputy at each school and included video presentations, goody bags and a visit from Eddie Eagle to discuss gun safety.

This included a gun safety pledge that each child signed to include the proper steps to take to keep themselves safe if they come across a gun.

Over 1,000 students took part at the three schools in grades Kindergarten through Second Grade.

Weed and Seed is a federally-funded strategy to prevent, identify and remove violent and drug related crimes in targeted neighborhoods. The program also brings in human services, activities and opportunities for residents.

Weed and Seed is a two-pronged approach: Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors cooperate in “weeding” out criminals who participate in violent crime and drug abuse in the targeted area. The human services are then “seeded” into the area to provide the prevention, treatment and neighborhood revitalization.

The overall goal of the West Augustine Weed & Seed is to improve the quality of life for its residents and to empower them to take ownership and pride in their community.

For additional information concerning the Weed & Seed Program, contact Dwala Willis, the coordinator at 823-4451.