Halloween Safe Night Out, hosted by Fresno EOC Local Conservation Corps and the West Fresno Family Resource Center, welcomed about 4,000 community members for an evening of safe Halloween fun. This annual event, held every Halloween, provides families and children with a secure, enjoyable space to celebrate in Southwest Fresno.
The event began in response to a tragedy, after the heartbreaking loss of young Kayla Foster, who was killed nearby. Following this incident, Fresno EOC organized community listening sessions to understand local safety needs. From these conversations, Halloween Safe Night Out was created to bring families together in a positive, safe environment. “We wanted to make a safe space for kids and families in the neighborhood,” shared Shawn Riggins, Fresno EOC Local Conservation Corps Director.
With a haunted house, costume contest, live music, and plenty of candy, families enjoyed an evening that also included a selfie station to capture memories. The event’s turnout continues to grow each year, showing the community’s appreciation for a safe space to celebrate Halloween.
“One of the great things about working in this community is when we pool our strength and share the work and responsibility, we can welcome even more people, especially those in deep distress, and perhaps help them for a few hours enjoy time with their families,” said Yolanda Randles, Executive Director of the West Fresno Family Resource Center.
Events like Halloween Safe Night Out reflect Fresno EOC’s commitment to Community Safety, one of the agency’s six focus areas. Fresno EOC recognizes that safe neighborhoods are essential for healthy, thriving communities. By creating positive, secure spaces for families to come together, Fresno EOC helps to build a foundation of safety and support in Southwest Fresno.
The event is hosted by the Safe Night Out Halloween Committee which includes: Fresno EOC Local Conservation Corps (LCC), the Fresno Police Department (Southwest Policing District), the City of Fresno’s PARCS Department, West Fresno Family Resource Center, Take A Stand Committee, Fresno Police Activities League (PAL), Fresno Police Neighborhood Watch, St. Rest Baptist Church, AmeriCorps, Safe Place, Bringing Broken Neighborhoods Back to Life (BBNBTL), and YouthBuild Charter School of California.
Take a look below for more photos from Halloween Safe Night!
