Aug. 1 holds special significance this year: the 40th anniversary of National Night Out.

Held annually on the first Tuesday of August, this community get-together provides an opportunity for all law enforcement officers to build and strengthen bonds with local families and community members.

The roots of the event date back to the early 1980s in Philadelphia, with a block party theme. NNO is now celebrated in communities across the country, including Salisbury.

Members of Salisbury Township Police Department are working hard toward making this year’s celebration a special one.

To begin with, there’s a new venue: Salisbury Elementary School, 1400 Gaskill Ave., Allentown. The event will be held 6-8 p.m. with free food and drinks, emergency vehicles on display, entertainment, face painting and a 50/50 drawing.

And then there’s the gift baskets raffle. This is an integral part of the celebration, as funds raised help cover the costs of hosting the event.

The department is requesting the community’s help in acquiring gift baskets; donations would be much appreciated.

If you would like to help make this year’s National Night Out a successful one in the township, contact Cpl. Kevin Kress at kkress@salisburytownshippa.org.

Donations will be accepted until July 31.