City launches weekly bingo and safety series for older Richmond residents

The City of Richmond is hosting a free weekly series for older residents that mixes bingo, music and guided movement with safety information and city resources. Bingo, Beats & Safer Streets runs Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m. through Nov. 19, at a different location each week.

The first session was held Sept. 24 at Hotchkiss Field Community Center on East Brookland Park Boulevard. Next week’s stop is Oct. 1 at Armstrong Renaissance, 1665 N. 31st St.

What happens at each session

A DJ, bingo prizes and short talks from city departments

The Office of Gun Violence Prevention is running the nine-week series with the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer and the Richmond Police Department. Each event includes a DJ, bingo with prizes, time to talk with city staff and brief informational segments from city departments and community partners.

Topics on the list include Code Refresh, property taxes, internet and phone safety, aging and disability initiatives and the city’s upcoming budget town hall meetings.

“Building relationships with older residents starts with showing up in ways that feel comfortable and familiar,” said Dargenaba Anderson, program and operations supervisor for the Richmond Police Department. “This series gives us that opportunity to create genuine moments of trust and understanding. Efforts like this help ensure older community members have the support, resources, and reassurance they need.”

“We want to take the time to inform, educate and keep the city residents aware on the latest topics happening around the city,” said Timika Vincent, manager of the Office of Neighborhood Engagement. “All are invited to these series to learn more about safety.”

“Our seniors have built this city. That’s why we are committed to providing practical access to resources to reach these prized residents in ways that feel natural and supportive,” said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II.

Fall schedule

All sessions run from 1 to 3 p.m.

• Oct. 1: Armstrong Renaissance, 1665 N. 31st St.
• Oct. 8: RRHA, 1920 Stonewall Ave.
• Oct. 15: Imperial Plaza, 1717 Bellevue Ave.
• Oct. 22: T.B. Smith Community Center, 2015 Ruffin Road
• Oct. 29: Baker, 100 W. Baker St.
• Nov. 5: Southside Community Center, 6251 Warwick Road
• Nov. 12: Randolph Community Center, 1415 Grayland Ave.
• Nov. 19: Dominion Place, 1025 W. Grace St.

The city says all community members are welcome.