North Camden is bursting with holiday cheer thanks to hundreds of decorative bows (on street trees and window boxes) and dozens of glistening candy canes on telephone poles – all handmade by residents through the Block Supporter Initiative!

The team of staff and volunteers who created these decorations felt so much pride in bringing the spirit of the holidays to their community. “This inspires the neighborhood,” explained Jennifer Flores of State Street, “Making these holiday decorations brings so many people in North Camden together.” Edda Lugo of York Street added, “I love this because it’s not only for me, it’s for everyone in North Camden.” Milagros Rosado explained, “I’ve never seen anything like this. I’m so impressed and proud of our work.”

This December, the Block Supporter Initiative will host a North Camden House Decorating Contest with prizes and recognition in categories like “Most Festive House,” “Youth Choice House,” “Best Decorated Business,” and “Best Decorated Block.” For more information, check out the North Camden House Decorating Contest Facebook event.

Through the Block Supporter Initiative, over 550 Block Supporter households in North Camden are doing their part to create shared pride, respect, and responsibility by keeping the front of their properties clean and getting positively involved in their community. In 2017, the BSI engaged over 250 new households while employing 12 local residents and stabilizing 36 vacant lots. The BSI in North Camden is sponsored by Camden Lutheran Housing, Inc.