HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — The Hartford Police Department partnered up with local community groups, including the Blue Hills Civic Association (BHCA), for a cookout and resource day.

The event was open to the public and was in part of the National Faith & Blue Weekend.

It took place Saturday afternoon at New Antioch Baptist Church on 161 Nelson Street in Hartford.

“They see the human side of policing, not just an individual in a uniform, walking and patrolling the streets,” Assistant Police Cheif Rafael Medina said. “We’re interacting with the families, community, faith-based leaders, church, to bring us all together.”

Resources available at the event included booths to register to vote, be counted in the 2020 Census, and receive free books for children and young adults.

“We’re working here to not only reduce crime but to make sure that the quality of life goes up,” said Kelvin Lovejoy from BHCA.

The police department said the goal of the event is to “dissolve misconceptions of law enforcement professionals while unifying partnerships and the confidence of the community we serve.”

There’s plans to continue running this event on an annual basis.