FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The DDP convened business, faith, and community leaders on World Mental Health Day to discuss mental health resources and public safety for the Downtown community and
throughout the city
DETROIT, October 10, 2023 – The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) hosted its third-annual Faith & Blue Breakfast, a community prayer breakfast, in partnership with the Detroit Police Department (DPD), today at the newly opened Book Tower Hotel.
The event featured guest speakers from DDP and DPD leadership, including DDP CEO Eric B. Larson and DPD Commander Michael Chambers. Leaders from Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan, Pope Francis Center and Mariners Church of Detroit also attended.
“The Detroit Police Department is proud to once again collaborate with DDP for this impactful community event,” said DPD Commander Michael Chambers. He continued, “In particular, our focus on mental health and its importance to public safety. The work we are doing in mental health across the city will continue to grow, and partnerships are critical to that growth. Our partnership with DDP and other organizations helps create a more impactful and healthy public safety program for all Detroiters.”
This year’s breakfast is especially meaningful since it falls on World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of mental health issues around the world and helping mobilize mental health initiatives.
Opening prayers were given by DPD’s Commander Chaplain Anthony Estes and DDP Executive Board Member Bishop Edgar L. Vann of Second Ebenezer Church. Additionally, Gina Cavaliere, DDP’s Chief Community Impact Officer and BIZ Director, shared about DDP’s daily community involvement and Project Lighthouse efforts.
DDP and DPD have made it a priority to incorporate mental health resources and social work into the community safety system. All Downtown Ambassadors receive mental health first aid training, helping the Downtown patrons experiencing housing insecurity and mental health challenges.
“Our DDP Safety Outreach Ambassadors train directly with the DPD neighborhood police officers on engagement protocols to assist those who are struggle with mental health, substance misuse, and housing insecurity.” said DDP CEO Eric B. Larson. “This initiative is a testament to how our collective services work together to help people in need, while ensuring the public safety and well-being of all Downtown employees, residents, and visitors.”
During the event, the Detroit Police Department presented DDP with a certificate of appreciation from the third precinct.
The annual Faith and Blue Breakfast came together as a request from Downtown stakeholders. DDP has since convened public safety officials with business and faith-based leaders to discuss ways to improve upon the Downtown community and city.
“This event provides an opportunity for the DDP and DPD to learn from and support the efforts of our faith-based organizations,” said Commander Chambers. “It is important that we understand what each of our organizations are doing so we can best serve our constituents.”
Throughout the year, Project LighthouseTM, Downtown’s Neighborhood Watch program run through DDP, also works to keep Detroit safe. Businesses throughout Detroit act as safety beacons where visitors and locals can stop by and ask for directions, find safety from inclement weather, and request police assistance.
For more information on DDP’s public safety and mental health initiatives, visit downtowndetroit.org.
About Downtown Detroit Partnership
The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) strengthens and supports Downtown Detroit through strategic initiatives and programs. DDP convenes business, philanthropic, and government partners to create a vibrant and resilient urban core for Detroit and the surrounding community. DDP is responsible for programming, managing, and operating several of Downtown Detroit’s parks and public spaces. For more information, visit DowntownDetroit.org.
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