'Help and Hope' launched to deter crime

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard and local service providers are teaming up in an effort to fight crime.

It's a program called "Help and Hope.”

The goal is to show those in need that they have somewhere to go for help paying bills, buying groceries and finding shelter instead of turning to crime to solve their problems.

The mayor says economy related crime has increased in the past few weeks.

"Indianapolis has long been recognized as a community that helps its neighbors in need. There are many who are willing and able to help,” said Mayor Ballard.

Hoosiers that are in need of assistance from local service and charitable providers can call 211 any time of day or night.

That hotline will help connect Hoosiers with a program that can help.