NEWS RELEASE — The Brownsville Community Center will host the 31st annual National Night Out event on Aug. 5.

The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, The Pensacola Police Department, Northwest Florida Prevention Coalition, and the Community Drug and Alcohol Council, Inc. sponsor the event, which is from 6 to 8 p.m. at the center, 3100 W. DeSoto St.

National Night Out is an annual community event aimed to encourage members of the community to unite against crime.

The National Night Out program is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for and participation in local anti-crime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The celebration will include free food and refreshments, school supplies for children, music, raffle prizes and plenty of activities for kids.

National Night Out is sponsored nationally by Target.