Lutheran Services Florida will join groups across the country to mark National Safe Place Week March 20-26.

This commemorative week highlights the innovative Safe Place program, which brings businesses and volunteers together to provide help and safety to children and teens facing abuse, neglect or serious family problems.

Safe Place is a nationally acclaimed outreach program that makes help readily available to young people in crisis. A network of more than 17,000 partnering businesses and community buildings that appeal to youth – such as fast food restaurants, convenience stores, fire stations, public buses and libraries – are trained to connect youth who might be abused, neglected, thrown away or in immediate danger to their local youth shelter.

LSF is a designated Safe Place provider in all areas with LSF youth shelters, including Crestview, Fort Myers, Oakland Park and Pensacola.

Safe Place programs serve nearly 1,500 communities across the country and are managed by 136 youth-serving agencies in 39 states and the District of Columbia. More than 250,000 youth nationally have been counseled by phone or received help through a business or community location displaying the Safe Place sign since the program’s inception in 1983.

This week is designated to recognize the participating businesses, community organizations, youth service agencies and volunteers that are part of the National Safe Place program and work for the safety and well being of at-risk youth.

Safe Place provides access to immediate help and safety for all young people in crisis. The Safe Place program was created by the YMCA of Greater Louisville in 1983. For additional information, visit www.nationalsafeplace.org.

Lutheran Services Florida is a statewide, nonprofit human services agency dedicated to helping all people in need regardless of religious affiliation, age or national origin. Headquartered in Tampa, the agency has more than 60 programs located throughout Florida. Since it was established in 1982, LSF has helped more than 850,000 children and families. LSF’s mission is to bring God’s healing, hope and help to people in need.

Photos Below: Youngsters enjoy Safe Place Fun Day at the STAR Complex in Fort Myers on March 26 as part of National Safe Place Week.