Safe Steps Northeast is a community-driven initiative to provide consistent, reliable cleaning for residential blocks in Northeast Philadelphia. Powered by Glitter, in partnership with State Rep Jared Solomon, and funded by the state, we're empowering neighbors to transform their streets.

Most residential blocks in PA District 202 get cleaned every-other-week through October 2026.

Neighbors who want even cleaner streets can pledge to fund additional cleaning, up to once per week, through Glitter's innovative "pay-what-you-can" model.

Group Cleaning Phot with Glitter staff and State Representative Jared Solomon

How It Works

  • Block Cleaning: One year of monthly cleaning for all 500+ residential blocks in PA District 202. Removes litter and trash from the street, sidewalk, curb, and storm drains.

  • Living Wage Jobs: Glitter hires, trains, and manages paid cleaners who provide block cleaning. Cleaners earn $25/hr and we prioritize hiring those with barriers to work.

  • Neighbor Contributions: Neighbors can team up to crowdfund more frequent cleaning for their block through Glitter's flexible funding model.

  • Lasting Impact: We continue cleaning after the one year grant as long as their is neighbor support on your block to continue funding regular cleaning.

Impact & goals

See the difference Glitter is making in neighborhoods like yours:

  • Cleaner Streets: A cleaner block tends to stay cleaner. Regular sweeping ensures a fresh start at least once per month.

  • Safer Communities: A clean block experiences a 29% drop in violent crime. Mental health and quality of life also improve.

  • Healthier Environment: Clean streets are better for our families and our pets. Keeping trash out of our waterways also protects wildlife and the environment.

  • Community Pride: Neighbors are empowered to invest in more beautiful and welcoming shared spaces in their community.

“Together we can create safer, cleaner streets by partnering with residents, local businesses like Glitter, and government. The path to a better Philadelphia is through collaboration and practical proven approaches like this.”
— Jared Solomon, State Representative

stay informed

Join us on our journey towards a cleaner, safer Philadelphia. Receive the latest updates, progress reports, and news directly to your inbox.

Reach out to us to learn more:

hello@shareglitter.com | 215-436-9018.

Learn more

  • Glitter is an affordable service that keeps litter and trash off your streets, sidewalks, and storm drains. Our pay-what-you-can model brings neighbors together to fund weekly cleaning.

    We pay a living wage and we prioritize hiring those in the community with barriers to work. We’re based in Philadelphia and committed to supporting cleaner and safer neighborhoods across the city.

  • Our main focus is removing litter and trash from the sidewalks, street, and storm drains. When time allows, we’ll sweep also up leaves and pull weeds.

    We report bulk items like tires, appliances, and construction debris to the city for removal.

    We’ll clean up anything that is safe to handle, including discarded needles and bagged pet waste. We cannot handle other hazardous materials, such as unbagged feces or dead animals.

  • All 500+ residential blocks in PA District 202 will be cleaned once-per-month for one year starting in April 2025. The district includes parts of Oxford Circle, Mayfair, Tacony and Bustleton.

  • "Safe Steps Northeast'' captures our commitment to enhancing neighborhood safety through weekly block cleaning, right up to your doorstep. And it signifies the beginning of a positive step for those with barriers to work, providing living wage jobs that make a difference right in their community. This name reflects our commitment to safety, engagement, and empowerment in Northeast Philadelphia.

  • During and after the grant, we invite neighbors to support ongoing cleanups through recurring pledges. We aim for each block to self-sustain these efforts, backed by ongoing community, business, and organizational support, with Glitter committed to the community as long as there is grassroots support.

  • Our neighborhood engagement lead will spearhead robust community engagement through partnership development, outreach materials, and event organization. Expect door-to-door engagement, block parties celebrating our progress, and opportunities for feedback throughout the initiative to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

  • Stay updated with our website and newsletter for all project milestones, progress reports, and news. For residents on serviced blocks, expect direct engagement and materials right at your doorstep, keeping you informed every step of the way.

  • We’re eager to hear from you!

    Contact Glitter at hello@shareglitter.com or 215-436-9018

This project was funded in part by the DCED Community and Economic Assistance Program.