The 2012 PAL “Playstreets” Program

With the increase in crime across the Five Boroughs through the early part of the summer, Assemblyman Sheldon Silver has successfully pushed to have the Police Athletic League (“PAL”) open one of its programs on the Lower East Side. This grew out of discussions with the NYPD about the need for recreational programs for local kids this summer. PAL has a successful track record over the years in other parts of the city, and Silver believes it’ll be a big hit with Lower East Side parents who are looking for something constructive for their children during the hot summer months.

“It is crucial for our Lower East Side families, particularly during the summer months, to have access to structured, outdoor recreation for their children. I am very pleased that, working with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the Police Athletic League, we were able to make sure that this important free drop-in program is offered at Tanahey Park, in a neighborhood where children will benefit greatly from recreational activities. I encourage all my neighbors to take advantage of this outstanding program.”

The PAL program will take place at Tanahey Park, on Cherry Street between Catherine Slip and Market Slip. It takes place every Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm, through August 24, with the exception of Friday July 27, which is staff development day.

The PAL was founded in 1914 by former Police Commissioner Arthur Woods and Captain John Sweeney. Together they came up with the concept of cops helping kids to benefit communities. For more information on the PAL, check out their website here.