FOWLER, Ind. (WLFI) — Benton County has launched a Safe Place Program. 10 Benton County businesses are participating.
Safe Place is a nationally recognized program designed for youth. Kids who feel unsafe at home are encouraged to go to these businesses for help.
Staff members are trained to help kids get the help they need. Purdue's community outreach program Purdue Extension took part in bringing the program to Benton County.
Purdue Extension’s Safe Place Coordinator Kelsie Muller said having options like a safe place can be extremely effective.
“It's important for youth to know they can make a positive choice if they're facing a difficulty or a challenge and so safe place gives them that opportunity to make a choice to reach out when they need help,” said Muller.
Fowler IGA grocery store is a Safe Place participant. Owner Jenny Rettig said it was important for her store to provide this service.
“We're always looking for ways to help our community we're the only grocery store in Benton County now," said Rettig. "We just like offering services to our community."
Businesses participating in Benton County's Safe Place Program include:
-Fowler Sheriff’s Office
-Fowler IGA Grocery Store
-Benton County Library in Fowler
-Benton County Health & Wellness Center in Fowler
-EMS Station in Fowler and Boswell
-Bowell Public Library
-Farmers & Merchants Bank in Boswell
-Ceres Solutions in Templeton
-Oxford Public Library
-Pizza King in Otterbein
