Andrew County Health & Safety Coalition brings community together to learn resources

ANDREW COUNTY, Mo. (KQTV) -- With 18,000 residents across 400 square miles, sharing information is difficult. That’s why the county’s health and safety coalition hosts events like the Savannah Block Party.

This free event brought together first responders and agencies to share information with families, including the Savannah Police Department, Savannah Fire Department, Missouri Department of Conservation, and others. Booths offered guidance on fire prevention and drug avoidance, and included a driving simulator among many other events.

Founded in 2019, the Andrew County Health and Safety Coalition is now led by director Jessica Bledsoe, who is proud to be in her second year organizing events like these.

Jessica Bledsoe expressed enthusiasm about seeing community members of all ages enjoying the event. "We hope to demonstrate that gatherings like this can be fun and meaningful without the presence of drugs or alcohol, encouraging families and friends to spend quality time together," she said.

Additionally, local businesses and organizations offered entertainment options for attendees, such as laser tag, petting zoos, crafts, and other activities, available for free or at low cost.

For more information on events and services provided by the Andrew County Health and Safety Coalition, click here.