Despite chilly, wet, and windy weather, nearly 600 people met at St. Joseph’s Church to discuss the health and safety of east Bakersfield. Organized by the East Bakersfield Faith Community Alliance- a network of east Bakersfield congregations and residents- the huge crowd met with newly-elected Sheriff Donny Youngblood to confirm a new partnership between the Sheriff’s department and EBFCA.

After EBFCA delivered their comprehensive, holistic plan to foster health and safety in “Our Neighborhood,” they gained a commitment from Sheriff Youngblood to do the following:

- Commission a Citizens Advisory Task force to address the health and safety issues in “Our Neighborhood.”
- Authorize a Sargent to be a Point of Contact for EBFCA and neighborhood residents to foster mutual information sharing, and build trust.
- Meet with EBFCA in 6 months to measure outcomes.

Media Coverage
Sheriff, residents open dialogue on violence