Almost everyone has an idea, suggestion, or concern they’d like to share with their local police, but few get the chance to do it.
“Some common concerns are noise complaints, suspicion, and harassment in the building,” said Sgt. Lourdes Ruiz, the administrator of a medical day care program in the Renaissance senior building in North Bergen. “There was a man last year who didn’t feel safe to go outside or in some places in the building.”
Last week, as part of the monthly “Coffee with a Cop” series, seniors at the building at 6201 Grand Ave. had an informal chance to talk with local law enforcement.
The program used to visit various locations around the city, but future Coffee with Cop events will be held at Renaissance for the seniors there. Participants are treated to free Dunkin Donuts coffee, donuts, and a chance to win a gift card.
“There’s been three [coffees with a cop], and this one was the best.” – Virginia Delgado, 81
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Seniors were also able to dance and sing as part of the program, before the raffle kicked off. PO Saray Durango said, “One of the best times I’ve had.”
Virginia Delgado, 81, has lived in North Bergen for 30 years, and has lived in the building for 17 years. “I was very pleased and happy with this event, and the events recently. There’s been three [Coffees with a Cop], and this one was the best. It was the first time the mayor came. We talked. It was fantastic. I participate in everything and go to every event here.”
North Bergen has several thousand seniors, and a diverse senior program.
Ruiz said, “We continue to do this, because it brings closeness with cops, tenants, and seniors. Seniors have different needs, and they really love this closeness.”
Kathryn Paletta, the North Bergen Public Housing director of social services, said, “It was a great turnout, and seniors look forward to it, because sometimes they’re scared to call the police.”
The officers that attend each event are usually from the community policing unit. Officer Hector Rosa, Durango, PO Nader Awadallah, and Officer Kaylan Tarabocchia came along with Sgt. Ruiz and Lt. Arthur Del. The department started coffee with a cop March 2015.
Sgt. Roberto Ruiz said, “They see the ins and outs of the building, so they tell us their concerns with this neighborhood-building.”
Diana Ramos is the activities director in the building. “It was wonderful,” she said. “Everyone in the building loved it. They want to do it once a week.”
After everyone filed out of the room, Sgt. Ruiz said, “They’re really excited and happy to feel a part of the community.”
Samantha Meyers can be reached at samantham@hudsonreporter.com .