The Linden Police Department announced a community outreach program following an uptick in violence in the city.

The department held a community event Monday to celebrate the opening of its Community Policing Station on Union Street.

The effort comes after an unusually violent weekend, which included the shooting of a 23-year-old on Clinton Street.

“Community policing is literally engaging the residents, building a relationship with them, finding out what their concerns are and letting them know how he can help him,” says Linden Police Chief Jonathan Parham. “It’s not always a police response. It’s a way we can help them solve their problems. We can facilitate problem solving by letting them know where they can turn to.”

The event held to celebrate the opening of the outreach center was free of charge. It included a meet and greet with the mayor and police chief, as well as games and giveaways for children and their families.