FLINT, Michigan — On April 19, the 2nd Ward community hosted the 2nd Ward Community Conversation, in partnership with WOW Outreach, Clio Road McDonald’s, and the Sarvis Park Neighborhood Association.

Held every third Tuesday of the month at Flint’s North Police Mini Station, the community-driven event gives 2nd ward residents opportunities to voice their concerns and learn about resources and new developments around businesses and economics, law enforcement, health, and education. This event is a part of 2nd Ward Councilwoman Dr. Ladel Lewis’ initiative to get residents engaged, involved, and informed.

Thirty people, including residents, law enforcement, business leaders, and community organizations, attended the conversation. Topics centered around preventive services for foster care families, mental health, and an introduction to the Flint Police Department’s CopLogic initiative.  

Preventive Services for Families

During the event, representatives from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDDHS) and Genesee County Preventive Services for Families (PSF) discussed what Child Protective Services (CPS) is and how to utilize it should the need arise. In addition, PSF talked about Flint’s foster care services that are “designed to preserve and strengthen family functioning to prevent child abuse and neglect.” PSF staff answered questions regarding becoming a foster parent, funding available, foster care statistics in Genesee County, and services offered. For more information, visit: michigan.gov/hopeforahome or call 1-855-MICHKIDS.

Genesee Health System

Genesee Health System (GHS) staff were present to talk about their mantra, 'it's ok to not be ok.' Attendees told stories about mental health issues, specifically concerning the African American community in Flint, asking for resources and guidance. GHS staff and attendees then had an open discussion about mental health, symptoms, and behaviors that families should be on the lookout for as well as tools and strategies they could use immediately. For more information on GHS’ mental health and other services, visit: genhs.org.

Flint Police Department
The 2nd Ward Community Conversations are held at Flint’s North Police Mini Station on the corner of Bishop and MLK Blvd.
Officers from the Flint Police Department gave a presentation on the new online citizen police report system known as CopLogic. The online portal provides a new way for Flint residents to make and file non-emergency police reports. These reports can be, but are not limited to, burglary, found property, harassment, hit and runs, and more.

The officers gave 2nd Ward residents a deep dive into how to utilize CopLogic, from filling out forms to providing supplemental materials such as photos and documentation. CopLogic is available for Flint residents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can be found here.

Attendees also learned about the proposed new zoning laws that would see the 2nd Ward lose residents north of Stewart Ave., but gain the old Northern School District area as the city’s population continues to shift. With lunch served during the later morning, attendees could talk with each other and share information related to Sarvis Park’s Cleanup Day and other events in Flint.

The 2nd Ward community's next monthly meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 17 from 9-11 a.m. at Flint’s North Police Mini Station.