Safe Place® is a national youth outreach and prevention program that provides immediate help and safety for young people in crisis. Hawaiʻi’s Safe Spaces for Youth initiative brings this model locally—creating a network of trusted locations where youth can go anytime to access support, resources, and connection. 

 

Across the state, participating sites display the yellow and black Safe Place sign, signaling to youth that help is available, no questions asked. 

 

What We Do 

Immediate Access to Help 

 

Safe Place locations offer youth a safe, supportive environment where they can ask for help and connect with trained professionals. Whether a young person is experiencing family conflict, homelessness, mental health challenges, or simply needs a safe place to go, support is available. 

 

Statewide Network of Safe Locations 

 

Safe Spaces are located in libraries, community organizations, and partner sites across Hawaiʻi. These locations are staffed by trained employees who can quickly connect youth to local service providers. 

 

Connection to Services 

 

Once a young person reaches a Safe Place site, staff contact a licensed youth service provider. A trained professional will respond—often within a short time—to assess needs and help connect the youth to appropriate services, including shelter, counseling, or other supports. 

 

24/7 Text Support (TXT 4 HELP) 

 

Youth can also access help anywhere by texting “SAFE” and their location to 4HELP (44357). This free, nationwide service connects youth to immediate support and nearby Safe Place locations. 

 

How It Works 

A young person enters a Safe Place location and asks for help 

Staff provide a safe, comfortable space and contact a local provider 

A trained responder connects with the youth to assess needs and next steps 

Youth are connected to services such as shelter, counseling, or family support 

Who It’s For 

 

Safe Place serves youth ages 12–17 who are in need of immediate help or safety. This includes youth experiencing: 

 

Family conflict or crisis 

Homelessness or housing instability 

Abuse, neglect, or unsafe situations 

Emotional distress or mental health challenges 

Our Approach 

 

Safe Spaces for Youth is built on: 

 

Accessibility: Help is available where youth already are 

Safety: Youth can seek help without barriers or judgment 

Partnership: Community organizations work together to respond quickly 

Prevention: Early support helps prevent deeper system involvement 

Our Partners 

 

This initiative is made possible through collaboration between Hawaiʻi Youth Services Network, Department of Human Services – Office of Youth Services, Hale Kipa, Salvation Army Family Intervention Services, and community-based partners across the state. 

 

 

Find a Safe Place 

 

Look for the yellow and black Safe Place sign at participating locations across Hawaiʻi, or text “SAFE” + your location to 4HELP (44357) for immediate assistance.