San Joaquin Community Hospital to Hold Project Lov - A Community-Wide Graffiti Cleanup Day

What: In honor of its 100-Year Anniversary, San Joaquin Community Hospital will hold the first annual Project LOV (Living our Values), a community service day for employees and their friends and family. This year, SJCH has partnered with Stop Graffiti Now, a division of the Bakerfield Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit for a community-wide graffiti cleanup. Over 300 hospital volunteers are expected to participate.
When: Saturday, April 10, 2010
Proclamation address by Mayor Harvey Hall: 8:45 a.m.
Graffiti cleanup: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Where: Event begins at the entrance of San Joaquin Community Hospital at 2615 Chester Ave. After the program, participants will disperse across the city.
Why: Each year, the US spends nearly $16 billion on graffiti removal. Here in Bakersfield, $1.8 million is spent to remove graffiti on a yearly basis. Despite the funds and manpower that are put into the effort, there is still an overwhelming need for aid from community volunteers to stop the spread of graffiti. Not only does graffiti decrease property value, it affects the growth, well-being and mental state of a community. As a community hospital, SJCH understands this need and is committed to being part of the solution.
Photo/Interview Opportunities:
Jarrod McNaughton, SJCH Vice President
Mayor Harvey Hall
Tony Martinez, BPD Community Relations Specialist
Hospital employee volunteers
Contact: For more information or to schedule an interview or photo op, contact Jimmy Phillips at 333-2468.