Crime Watch Network hosts Lunch and Learn meeting
Members of the Neighborhood Crime Watch Network, law enforcement officers, local leaders and concerned citizens gathered for a Lunch & Learn meeting recently. PHOTO BY STEPHAN DREW
By Stephan Drew, Editor
The Darlington County Crime Watch Network hosted a Lunch & Learn Forum on Thursday, February 26, at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, 400 S. Main St., in Darlington. The community-focused gathering provided residents with an opportunity to meet and engage with local law enforcement officers while discussing ways to strengthen and improve neighborhoods across the county.
All Darlington County residents were invited to attend, and a small crowd filled the fellowship hall for the informative session. Two local law enforcement officers and Darlington City Councilmember Angela McRavin were among those present.
Councilmember McRavin highlighted the recent success of the Warming Center, which operates at the A.W. Stanley/B.A. Gary Gym, 107 Gary St., during periods of extreme cold. She shared how the shelter provided a safe haven for residents in need and emphasized the importance of continued community partnerships to support vulnerable citizens. The facility will be used as a Cooling Center during the extreme heat of the summer months.
Crime Watch Network President Deidre Odom spoke about services available throughout the area and stressed the need for increased vigilance in neighborhood watch programs. She encouraged residents to remain proactive, report suspicious activity, and look out for one another to help deter crime and promote safer communities.
Carol Dixon, Project Director for the Darlington County Long Term Recovery Group, addressed local damage caused by recent storms and provided information about recovery resources. She outlined opportunities available through the South Carolina Housing Trust Fund (SC HTF), administered by the South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority.
Dixon explained that the SC HTF supports the development and preservation of safe, quality, affordable housing for low- to very-low-income households statewide. Through its Disaster Assistance Program (DAP), eligible local governments may receive funding to provide up to $30,000 per home for disaster-related repairs for homeowners at or below 80 percent of the area median income—even in areas without a FEMA declaration. She also highlighted the Supportive Housing Program, which expands access to affordable rental housing for individuals and families with complex needs, including persons with disabilities and those experiencing homelessness, by pairing housing with voluntary support services that promote stability and independent living.
Additional topics discussed during the forum included home safety practices, maintaining awareness of one’s neighbors and surroundings, and strengthening community vigilance efforts.
Attendees were treated to a delicious lunch as they engaged in meaningful conversation and collaboration, reinforcing the Crime Watch Network’s mission of building safer, more connected neighborhoods throughout Darlington County.