‘Hope on the Block’ brings prayer and support to troubled Humboldt Park streets

CHICAGO — Beneath the blistering sun, in a display of determination, hundreds gathered on Sunday in Humboldt Park to march through one of the city’s most troubled neighborhoods, calling upon a higher power to bring peace and protection to their streets.

The initiative is in response to West Side residents who say they have felt unheard and unsafe in their neighborhoods for years.

“My brother who died of drug addiction used to be in this area to buy drugs on a regular basis. As well, I have a great-nephew who died of gun violence so I felt it was very important to seize these streets for God,” Marisol Rosa Rodriguez said.

Unfazed by the heat, they walked for blocks from New Life Covenant Church on Division Street to Harding Park.

“We had this planned for months. Pray for our community, pray for those who are hurting, pray for those who are dealing with depression and those with addiction,” Marcelo Pozo, Pastor of New Life Covenant Church’s Humboldt Park campus, said.

The massive turnout set the tone for the beginning of a collaborative movement, bringing together churches, government, law enforcement and community members to kick off a new program called Hope on the Block.

“Every week this summer we will have a presence on the blocks in the neighborhood, offering prayer, resources and support,” David Marrero, Lead Pastor of New Life Covenant Church’s Humboldt Park campus, said.

Faith and city leaders describe the area they marched through as a hotspot for open-air drug activity and gun violence. They emphasized that it has been a persistent problem for nearly a decade.

“Parents have to dodge drug dealers when taking their kids to school. Parents have to dodge drug dealers going to the grocery store,” Ald. Gilbert Villegas (36th ward) said.

Organizers believe by staying actively involved in the neighborhood with prayers, support and a firm stand against crime, the quality of life will improve.

Neighbors have faith this summer will serve as a defining moment of hope and progress.

“Thank you for finally listening to us, let’s make a difference,” Patricia Carrillo Vecinos Unidos said.

Starting next week, faith leaders and community members plan to set consistent weekly days to stay engaged and visible in the neighborhood.

Ald. Villegas’ office also intends to maintain a regular presence on Tuesdays and Thursdays.