The NYCHA Journal

The NYCHA Journal has informed and inspired residents since 1970, covering the news, contributions, and uplifting stories of the NYCHA community while providing the latest information on Authority initiatives.

Communities Featured Top Story 

National Night Out at NYCHA 

Nii Akrofi Smart-Abbey

On August 1, New York City Police Department (NYPD) precincts celebrated the annual National Night Out by hosting a variety of events in the communities they serve across the city. National Night Out brings together community members and local police officers to strengthen relationships and promote safer neighborhoods.  

Each of the nine Police Service Areas (PSA) that serve NYCHA developments marked the occasion with entertainment, contests, refreshments, and distribution of safety information to residents. NYPD personnel were joined by NYCHA executives, staff, board members, residents, resident association members, elected officials, and other community partners.   

NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt joined the celebrations at Red Hook Houses in Brooklyn, where she presented a proclamation to PSA 1 police officers. Chief Operating Officer Eva Trimble and Chief of Staff to the Chief Operating Officer Lauren Gray also presented proclamations at PSA 7 (Mott Haven Houses) and PSA 8 (Clason Point Houses), respectively, in the Bronx to recognize the PSAs’ efforts in service to the community.  

NYCHA’s Vice President for Public Safety James Secreto and Executive Vice President for Resident Services, Partnerships, and Initiatives Ukah Busgith attended several National Night Out celebrations; staff from NYCHA’s Public Safety office participated in celebrations hosted by all of the 9 PSAs.

NYCHA Vice President of Resident Services Leroy Williams (left) with NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt (center) as she reads a proclamation at Coffey Park in Brooklyn.
PSA 4 Commanding Officer Captain Ronald Cheng (second from left) chatting with other police officers and a resident.
From L-R: NYPD’s Deputy Chief Kieran Creighton, NYCHA’s Vice President for Public Safety and Security James Secreto, and NYPD Deputy Chief Elvio Capocci at the PSA 5 event.
From L-R: Red Hook Resident Association President Karen Blondel, NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt, and Anthony “Tony” Herbert from the Mayor’s Office.
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban with PSA 2 officers.
From L-R: Assistant Director in the Office of Safety and Security Constance Robotham, Vice Chair of the NYCHA Board Victor Gonzalez (third from left), NYCHA Board Member Ray Miller (at the back), and NYCHA Board Member James McKoy (right) at Saint Nicholas Houses.
Residents at the National Night Out event hosted by PSA 5.
Residents enjoying treats at the National Night Out event hosted by PSA 8.