Monday morning, City Councilmember Robert Cornegy, Brooklyn District Attorney Kenneth Thompson and members of the NYP were in Bedford-Stuyvesant to announce the launch of Project Safe Stop, a community partnership connecting small businesses of Bed-Stuy and Crown Height, along with law enforcement to provide safe havens to individuals in need of emergency assistance.
Eighteen small businesses in Bedford-Stuyvesant and northern Crown Heights so far have volunteered to be Safe Stop Establishments-- locations along commercial corridors that people can enter in case of an emergency, such as vulnerable seniors needing assistance, teens being bullied, LGBTQ individuals and women experiencing street harassment, or any other residents or visitors who are lost or in need of emergency or medical assistance.
Participating business owners underwent NYPD background checks and training to prepare them to provide a haven where they will also serve as eyes and ears in the community, reporting potential crimes or disturbances they observe.
"The Safe Stop Program is a concrete way for small businesses to express their commitment to creating that kind of community for every resident of and visitor to Bedford-Stuyvesant & Crown Heights," said Councilmember Cornegy. "I couldn't be prouder of the community spirit the successful launch of this program reflects."
Participating businesses can be identified by Safe Stop decals that will be displayed prominently in their front windows. New businesses wishing to join the program may sign up by calling 718.919.0740.
