A Stop the Violence project is coming to Bloomington-Normal this weekend on June 26.
The project and event was founded by a church group out of Decatur, Illinois. This event will be held at Sunnyside Park at 407 E Erickson in West Bloomington, behind the Sunnyside housing development.
Saturday, June 26 from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. there will be a watermelon eating contest, games, dancing and BBQ food for the community.
Those who wish to attend will have to register at 11:30 am. With registration comes the chance to win prizes and a free meal.
Pastor Glenda Jackson said this community event is on it’s sixth year.
“The mission is to give under served communities a fun time, where there’s no violence. We can talk to kids about doing positive things, showing them something positive for a change,” said Jackson. “Now there will be Christian youth, churches and businesses that participate.”
Bibles and backpacks will be passed out for the community.
“It’s just a fun time where we can reach out to the disadvantaged children and families in those communities.” said Jackson. “The McLean county Republican party is coming out and they’re going to put a booth up.”
The project has paired up with others like: the Abundant Life in Christ church, Midwest Food bank, Sam’s Club, Cities 92.9, the Hallelujah Worship Center, Center for Hope ministries and Christ Fellowship.
Other sponsors include Pepsi and Walgreens.