Big Island buses will become “mobile safe havens” for at-risk keiki under a new program by the Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency.
Mass Transit Administrator John Andoh announced that Mass Transit is partnering with the National Safe Place Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing shelter and resources to children and teens in crisis. Together, the two organizations have designated county buses as “safe places.”
Andoh explained that a child in trouble can ask any Hele-On bus driver for a “safe place,” whereupon the driver will contact dispatch, which will connect the child with appropriate resources and organizations.
“Maybe the child is being bullied, or chased, or harassed, or they’re uncomfortable going home because of a bad home situation,” Andoh said.
After a child requests a safe place, Andoh said the bus will drop them off at a police station or at other places partnered with the program. He said Mass Transit is in discussions with the Salvation Army for them to support the program.
Information about the program will be disseminated to children through decals and documentation on Hele-On buses, as well as through materials distributed at schools, Andoh said.
Andoh said similar programs have been adopted by municipal transit agencies throughout the nation, adding that the program in Columbia, South Carolina — where Andoh previously worked — was used “two or three times a year.”
He suggested that more populous cities will naturally have more users of the program.
In addition, Andoh said the safe place program is compatible with the National Safe Place Network’s TXT 4 HELP program, wherein children can text the word “safe” and their current location to the number 4HELP to be directed to the nearest safe place site and other resources.
“Our keiki need to know that our county staff, resources, and facilities are safe places they can turn to when they’re in need,” said Mayor Mitch Roth in a statement.
“It’s our hope that teachers, parents, and other members of our community will join us in informing youth across the island that this program exists if they find themselves in a situation where they need protection.”
Email Michael Brestovansky at mbrestovansky@hawaiitribune-herald.com.