Brooklyn Stores Become "Safe Havens"
Effort inspired by last month's kidnapping and murder of 8-year-old Leiby Kletzky of Brooklyn.
Some Brooklyn stores will soon have stickers in their windows, letting people know they’re safe places to go for help.
The effort is aimed at helping residents in need, particularly children and senior citizens.
Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes is heading the program called “Safe Stop.” He said the program is directed towards anyone who feels threatened, isn’t feeling well, or simply needs to contact family.
“Feeling alone is one of the worst things when you’re out on the street and vulnerable” said Hynes.
In Sunset Park, 45 storeowners have offered to participate in the program so far. That includes John Miniaci, owner of Johnny’s Pizzeria. Miniaci said he’s honored to have the green Safe Haven sticker in his window. He said he's ready to offer a helping hand to the community.
“We’ll ask them how they’re feeling, give them a drink of water…somewhere to sit down, and when they’re ready to talk to their loved ones we’ll pick up a phone and call for them” said Miniaci.
The “Safe Stop” program follows last month’s kidnapping and murder of 8-year-old Leiby Kletzky of Brooklyn, who got lost coming home from camp.
