Tuesday August 5 offers Woodbury residents a chance to get to know their neighbors better during the annual Night to Unite. 

The idea is that neighborhoods are safer and function better when folks who live near each other look out for each other. This annual gathering is designed to help folks get acquainted and strengthen those bonds.

Many neighborhoods have a tradition of joining together for a potluck, a BBQ, an ice cream social, or just a few games for the kids followed by a pitcher of lemonade. If your neighbors don’t have a tradition, you can start one with an invitation by text chain, email, or notes dropped off by kids. It doesn’t have to be elaborate – just friendly.

Previously known as National Night Out , the gatherings were encouraged by police departments to help fight crime. Woodbury Public Safety is the city agency that promotes the activity. Residents who registered in advance were able to request a visit from police officers or fire fighters and their official vehicles.

Public safety staff also use the Night to Unite to help city residents reach out to folks in Woodbury who are struggling. The officers are collecting gift cards for groceries, fuel, and necessities to give to folks facing emergencies. The gift cards can be shared with officers on Aug. 5  or dropped off at the public safety building during regular business hours.