After a two year hiatus the Picayune Police Department will again host a National Night Out event, this time at the Criminal Justice Center on Main Street.

For years officers with the department would ride around the town during the annual event, held nationwide, to meet with community members and increase drug and crime awareness and build on community relationships between the department. The event also aims to raise community awareness of anti-crime efforts and let criminals know that the community is organized and will fight back, according to a press release from the department.

However a slumping economy meant the department had to temporarily suspend their participation in the national event due to limited overtime funds, said Capt. Theresa Milar. This year the department will try something new, instead of riding around the city and visiting various churches and community members, the department will host an event at their base of operations.

Milar said the event will feature a fun jumper, various games for the kids, face painting, cake walk, and also refreshments. Grab bags will also be available for children and adults. The event is free to the public.

This event will give the community an opportunity to meet the department’s new Police Chief, Bryan Dawsey, as well as its police officers. The event will be held on Aug. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m. on the south side of the Criminal Justice Center building under the trees.

Any churches that would like to participate in the event or any community member who has a question about the event can contact Milar at 601-798-6829 ext. 304.