Why Do Communities Need Safe Place?

Communities are made of individuals and families, and the stability of communities is dependent upon strong and stable families. Community problems, including crime, addiction, and discord arise from issues that go deeper than what appears on the surface.  Some of the issues communities face begin with youth and family discord and strife.

Youth may experience difficult problems during their young lives.  These may lead young people to make difficult, and sometimes dangerous decisions in an effort to escape what it is they are going through. Sometimes, youth feel they don’t belong, and leaving home is often not a choice they want to make. Providing Safe Place as a resource for youth provides a safety net for them, thereby strengthening families and communities.

Sometimes youth need help and safety from an immediate threat from strangers and even friends.  Riding with an unsafe or under-the-influence driver can be a very real danger.  Being separated or stranded from friends in unfamiliar and possibly dangerous surroundings can lead to tragic outcomes. Safe Place can provide a safe way to get reconnected with loved ones, possibly preventing victimization and further injury.

How Does a Community Benefit from Having a Safe Place Program?

• Youth can access help before their situation becomes a crisis

• Safe Place provides opportunities for unique partnerships and collaborations between businesses and social service entities

• Part of a national effort – a broad safety net for youth

• Provides a way for children and teens to access help when, and where they need it

• Sends a powerful message that young people are valued

Regardless of the reason, young people have a place to turn in times of need. Youth may visit any designated Safe Place location and receive immediate help. They may also TXT 4 HELP to receive information about the closest Safe Place location and to chat with a professional for more help. 

Children and teens deserve access to Safe Place and TXT 4 HELP and a chance to work through their problems with the support of caring adults.