ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Police Department hosted an event catered to Spanish-speaking seniors Tuesday in an effort to connect them with resources that might help them feel safer in their communities.
The ‘Hispanic Senior Safety Summit’ featured representatives from various city agencies, including the police and fire departments.
“When we have events like this, we advertise and people come out,” said Commissioner Tony Ortiz of District 2.
News 6 spoke to Ortiz at the Engelwood Neighborhood Center, where the event was held.
“They’re always so eager to come over and interact with the police and with the firefighters,” Ortiz said. “And that’s what we want, for them to feel comfortable.”
The event included safety presentations about CPR, home burglary prevention, and avoiding scams.
“We got to make sure our seniors are well-acquainted with what’s going on out there,” Ortiz said, referring to scams targeting older people.
Ortiz said he was pleased with the turnout Tuesday.
Orlando residents in communities with substantial Hispanic populations have previously told News 6 community correspondents about fears surrounding law enforcement and the perceived roles officers play in immigration enforcement.
“I have come into contact with people out there who are totally panicking when it comes to law enforcement,” Ortiz acknowledged. “They don’t know who to trust anymore, especially with all the issues that are going on right now. It’s just very sad, especially people feeling insecure in their own persons, especially when they are navigating our city.”