Seeds of Hope

The abandoned police trailers before demolition

Today, on one of the coldest days of the year, Cramer Hill/Camden Churches Organized for People (CCOP) clergy and lay leaders hosted an exciting Community Rally and Celebration with Police Chief Scott Thompson, Police Director Vega, and Public Works Director Pat Keating.

At 9:30 a.m. on the corner of River Road and 29th, a public works bulldozer rolled in and began the demolition of two police trailers that have for years been an eyesore, center for drugs, a hub of graffiti activity, vandalism, and a constant reminder of neglect. With the lot cleaned up CCOP and Church leaders are planning to turn the space into a community garden with the help the Camden Children’s Garden and local volunteers.

"Since I arrived here in 2005, these trailers have been abandoned. Instead of being signs of commitment to our community and inspiring confidence, they have become signs of despair and have encouraged delinquency," said Fr. Jud Weiksnar, pastor at St. Anthony's of Padua Church and member of CCOP. "We're grateful that our persistence has paid off, and that our most recent requests to do something about these trailers were responded to so quickly. We hope that's a sign of things to come."

"We are excited that the City is taking this step. Now everyone who walks or drives by this corner will see something growing, rather than something decaying. It shows what can happen when you tap into the talent, creativity and faith of local groups and institutions such as CCOP, the Camden Children's Garden, and St. Anthony's."

Chief and Director of Police speaking with St. Anthony students

A view of the trailers from St. Anthony's Church and School