A Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) SA 40^th anniversary grant helped Woodcroft NHW spread festive cheer and create community connections at the recent Woodcroft Carols in the Park.

The popular community carols event organised by Woodcroft NHW has been running for 30 years. The local council was unable to provide financial support this year so the grant allowed Woodcroft NHW to continue the beloved local tradition.

NHW volunteer and event organiser Renae Garner said the evening was a fantastic success.

“Lots of families enjoyed spending time together as children had their face painted, visited the farm animals, played on the inflatable games and saw Santa,” Renae said.

“It was a great community event involving the Lions Club of Noarlunga-Morphett Vale, local Scouts and several food vendors. Once the sun had set, the glow-in-the-dark products lit up the park and everyone joined in singing the carols with local group, Sisters of Abundance.”

Community connections can be built through activities that bring the community together such as the Woodcroft Carols in the Park. Research has indicated a positive connection between the strength of relationships amongst individuals and community crime levels.

“The carols are all about bringing community members together and encouraging them to get to know their neighbours,” Renae said. “The carols are a safe environment where families, neighbours and residents can connect with one another, which helps to reduce crime and create a safer suburb for all to enjoy.”

The NHW 40^th anniversary grants were provided by South Australia Police (SAPOL) and the NHW Volunteers Association of South Australia Inc (VASA). It was initially agreed that SAPOL and VASA would each contribute $5,000 to the grants program. However, following an enthusiastic response and a total of 19 applications received, VASA generously increased the Board’s contribution to $10,000, bringing the total grant funds available to $15,000.