The Safe Place Program is a national program, begun in 1983. In 1999, we began the Safe Place Program in Contra Costa County in order to increase access to shelter services for youth. Safe Place is a distinct community outreach project that relies upon community agencies including the YMCA, The Contra Costa Fire District, and the County Connection bus line. Safe Place increases a youth’s access to help. Any child can walk into a Safe Place location and request assistance throughout the county. The location notifies the Northern California Family Center that a youth needs help. Crisis Services can then be offered.