Public Safety

Demolition Day of the Abandoned Police Sub Station, from the window of St. Anthony School

An Overview

Violent crime; surging homicide rate; highly structured drug markets; prevalence of guns; struggling community relations between each other and the police department; and a constant strain on city and police services makes for an environment where crime and disorder eat away at the fabric of community in Camden. However; through the skillful development of local leaders, a disciplined organizing model rooted in the democratic process and a profound commitment to the faith and values shared by our leaders and community CCOP is providing the means to transform conditions for individuals and families in the city of Camden.

Specific Projects Underway

• Sword of the Spirit Local Organizing Committee: Organizing around the active drug sets in Gateway by addressing the epidemic of graffiti, trash, and abandoned homes.
• Sacred Heart Waterfront South Local Organizing Committee: After organizing the neighborhood around shutting down a major drug dealing corridor, leaders won through a partnership with the Heart of Camden, a permenant solution to the problem alley.  Currently leaders are now doing listening to determine their next local issue.
• Cramer Hill Local Organizing Committee: Having successfully organized around the abandoned police substation, leaders were able to both demolish the 7 year old eye sore, but then fill the vacant lot with a community garden sponsored by the Camden Children's Garden.  Never before have you seen so much life on the corner of 29th and River Road.
• St. Joseph's Pro-Cathedral Local Organizing Committee: Leaders in East Camden are responding to the growing open air drug markets which are on the rise.  Currently a team meets regularly with the Camden Police Chief and is exploring new and creative ways to respond.