National Safe Place Network (NSPN) and the County of Hawai’i Mass Transit Agency (MTA) are partnering to launch Safe Place to expand the safety net for youth in crisis on Hawai’i Island.

Safe Place programs offer a place to turn to for many youths who believe they have no other option. Because Hawai’i Island does not have a full operating Safe Place program, the MTA has elected to partner with NSPN, helping bring resources and services to those in need.

Through the Safe Place transit model, NSPN offers partial Safe Place services throughout the island, where the resources for a full program are not currently available. It is the desire of the MTA to partner with a non-profit organization to support the intent of the Safe Place program and MTA is in discussions with the Salvation Army.

“Unfortunately, in today’s world, young people face family problems, homelessness, bullying, neglect, abuse and even human trafficking,” said Laurie Jackson, president and CEO of NSPN.  “Each year, the Safe Place and TXT 4 HELP programs directly impact the lives of more than 12,000 youth by providing access to immediate help and safety. TXT 4 HELP has offered real-time assistance to youth in crisis by responding to more than 117,000 incoming text messages since its inception in 2009.