In the past two weeks, I have personally witnessed scenes I wouldn't wish on anyone. Three times, I've seen lifeless bodies in the vicinity of Griffin Elementary School in Albany, NY, where my children attend. I've also seen people, destitute and battered, clearly having suffered from violence. The screaming, fighting, and hatred that permeate the area paint a harrowing picture of what should be a secure environment for our children.

Located dangerously close to Griffin Elementary, the Capital City Rescue Mission, although invaluable in its service to the community, inadvertently contributes to the chaos that endangers our young children. While the mission provides essential shelter and aid to Albany's homeless population, its proximity to the school raises serious safety concerns.

Recent statistics indicate a disturbing trend in rising incidents around the Mission area. According to local law enforcement, police calls concerning disorderly conduct and violence in this neighborhood have seen a 25% increase over the past year alone. Such statistics underline the urgency of addressing this issue and safeguarding our children from potential harm.

The solution is not to diminish the great work that the Capital City Rescue Mission does, but to relocate its operations to a less sensitive area, where it can continue to serve those in need without exposing young students to its inherent challenges. This change would not only help in maintaining a peaceful environment around Griffin Elementary but would also allow law enforcement to manage the area more effectively.

We call on the city officials and community leaders to prioritize the safety of Albany's children by supporting the relocation of the Capital City Rescue Mission to a more suitable location. Additionally, we urge the police department to increase their presence and enforcement against rowdiness in the interim. This action will help prevent further tragic incidents and ensure that our children can learn and grow in a safe, nurturing space.

Sign this petition to protect our children and restore peace to the Griffin Elementary School neighborhood.