IF YOU NEED HELP -- CALL 574-235-9396   Or Contact the South Bend Youth Services Bureau

What is a Safe Place?

Safe Place is a community program in which a local youth agency sets up public locations (both for-profit and non-profit) as a network of places where youth in crisis can get immediate help.  The agency also operates a youth shelter for those in their pre-teen and teenage years.

How can I recognize a Safe Place?

Safe Place sites are identified by the bright yellow and black diamond-shaped "Safe Place" signs or decals.

What types of places are Safe Place sites?

Fire stations, libraries, fast food restaurants, YMCAs, Boys and Girls Clubs, buses (mobile Safe Places), convenience stores, and other businesses all serve as Safe Place sites in different communities.  Look for the sign!

Who should you use Safe Place?

Any youth under age 18 can get help at a Safe Place site.  If you are having problems at home, suffering from abuse or neglect, lost or in some dangerous situation, with a drunk or unsafe driver, or just need to talk about a problem, go to the nearest Safe Place site.

What if I go to a Safe Place site that isn't open?

Most Safe Place sites have a Safe Place decal that says, "If Closed Call" and provides a local number to contact.  If the decal is not there, you can look for another Safe Place site that is open or call the local community crisis line.  You could also check in the phone directory to see if Safe Place is listed.

What happens when I go to a Safe Place site?

Just tell an employee, "I need a Safe Place."  The employee will find a safe and comfortable spot where you can wait while he or she contacts the local Safe Place agency.  Then, the agency will send someone to talk with you.

Will I have to wait long at the Safe Place site?

A Safe Place volunteer or agency staff member should arrive within 20 minutes or so.

What happens when the Safe Place volunteer arrives?

The Safe Place volunteer will talk with you and help you figure out what you should do. The volunteer will be happy to take you to a youth shelter or counseling agency if you would like assistance from a certified counselor.

Do I have to go to a shelter if I go to a Safe Place site?

No.  The decision to go to the shelter is voluntary.  At the shelter, no one will force you to stay.  The decision is always yours.

Will my parent(s) or guardian(s) be told where I am?

Yes.  The law dictates that the agency must contact your legal guardians to let them know that you are safe.  Remember that the counselors will be there as objective third parties should your parents/guardians arrive.  If you make any allegations of physical abuse, child protective services will be contacted.