There's a wealth of support and resources for the community in Hellam Township. That's the message the township hopes to convey at Hellam Township Police Department's National Night Out celebration. The event will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Hellam Township municipal building, 44 Walnut Springs Road, York.

"We are very proud of our police department," said Corina Mann, township manager. "They do so much for our community, so we wanted to let our community know that our police are here to help, they are friendly, and they are approachable."

Along with members of the Hellam Township Police Department, the Night Out will include representatives from the Hellam Fire Company and the Wrightsville Fire and Rescue Company as well as Susquehanna Valley EMS.

"Our police department recently got a K-9, so we'll be having K-9 demonstrations as well," Mann said. The K-9 unit is funded wholly by fundraisers and donations, so the police will have merchandise for sale at the event to benefit the program.

The municipal offices opened in their new facility in October, but because of the pandemic, there wasn't an opportunity at the time for an open house, Mann noted, so tours of the new location will be offered at the Night Out.

The event will also feature a variety of children's events, including a bounce house and games from local businesses and organizations.

"We'll have Critter Connections here, and they'll do a hands-on animal presentation," said Crystal Weston, administrative secretary. "We'll also have the Kinard Band performing."

Local businesses have donated hot dogs, chips and fresh fruit, which will be available free of charge, and event committee members will also offer freshly popped popcorn at the event. Two food trucks will sell food as well.

A variety of items will be given away at the event, including balloons, slap bracelets, pencils and sunglasses.

Hellam's Night Out is part of a program held across the country on the first Tuesday in August. The campaign promotes police-community partnerships and seeks to build camaraderie while emphasizing neighborhood safety.

Mann said the event offers an opportunity to socialize and get to know more about the organizations that serve the community.

"Come out and join us and meet your local emergency service personnel, township personnel, township office staff, public works department and more," she said. "It will be a fun-filled evening."