Since 2021, Hope worldwide’s NY Metro Chapter has partnered with the Newark Police Department’s 4th Precinct in the West Ward to build stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community. Under the leadership of Chapter Director Rhonda Clarke, the partnership has created programs that bring neighbors and police together in positive, meaningful ways. From painting murals that inspire empathy and positivity, to hosting bike-a-thons, fall festivals, back-to-school drives, and summer block parties, Rhonda and her team work to meet the needs of the community while creating lasting connections. The partnership also focuses on fighting food insecurity: weekly rescues of surplus food from restaurants like Panera, Olive Garden, and Manhattan Bagels are distributed to the unhoused and food-insecure residents, providing nutritious meals while reducing waste.