Crouch Block Party brings ‘community inclusion’ to Hamilton Rd. as improvement in area continues

The fourth annual Crouch Block Party brought Hamilton Road residents together with free entertainment, social services and lunch.

The fourth annual Crouch Block Party brought Hamilton Road residents together with free entertainment, social services and lunch.

“The block party really is about community inclusion,” said Angi Woodcock, executive director of Crouch Neighbourhood Resource Centre (CNRC).

“One significant piece of what we do is community development, and that is really about focusing on social inclusion, really solidifying the community, bringing it together.”

“This community is a very resilient community. It’s been a tough few years and really people have been left out of the social sector. Whether facing social or financial barriers, this event is free to the public so anybody can come and they can just enjoy each other, make connections and just bring some joy to their lives for one day”.

Sackville Street, a flex street beside the Crouch branch of the London Public Library, was closed as people danced to music all day.

“This is the heartbeat of Hamilton Road, so it's great every summer, to see everyone come out and enjoy the community here,” said Hadleigh McAlister, London Ward 1 Councillor, whose ward includes Hamilton Road.

Speaking at the event, McAlister praised some of the improvements to the exterior of businesses in the area and also pointed to another major project less than two kilometres away.