A Safe Place Network — Coming to Montura
We're building a network of trusted homes, churches, and businesses where any kid or teen in Montura can knock on the door and find help. A neighbor with a porch light on can be the difference. We need your community to make it real.
Right Now — If You Need Help Today
Our network isn't built yet. Until it is, these are the numbers to call. Save them in your phone now — yourself, your kids, and anyone you care about.
What We're Building
A network of vetted, visibly-marked locations across Montura — homes, churches, ranches, and businesses — where any kid or teen can walk up, get out of the heat, rain, or danger, get a glass of water and a phone, and wait safely until a parent, trusted adult, or law enforcement arrives.
It's modeled on the national Safe Place program, adapted for rural Hendry County, where help can be a long road away. Every location will be marked with a recognizable sign so a scared kid knows exactly which door to knock on.
How You Can Help Build It
This only works if the community shows up. We're looking for the first wave of churches, families, and businesses willing to be on the map. No cost to you — we'll handle the signage, the basic training, and the coordination.
Churches & Pastors
Host a safe location during service hours and beyond. Train a deacon, youth pastor, or volunteer. We'll provide signage and protocols.
Sign Up Our ChurchFamilies & Homeowners
Be a marked safe home on your road. Especially needed on the long stretches between LaBelle and Clewiston where the next house is a quarter-mile away.
Sign Up Our HomeBusinesses & Ranchers
Gas stations, feed stores, ranches, family businesses — anywhere a kid might walk up looking for help. We provide the sign and the training.
Sign Up Our BusinessOther Ways to Help
- •Background-checked driver pool — we need trusted adults willing to give a kid a ride home, to a parent, or to a safe location when no one else can come.
- •Phone tree volunteers — a small group of community members who can be reached around the clock to help coordinate.
- •Sponsor signage and supplies — fund a sign for a neighbor who can't, or donate first-aid kits and water for host locations.
- •Talk to your church — bring this idea to your next meeting. The fastest way this gets built is neighbors talking to neighbors.
If You're a Kid or Teen Reading This
The network isn't built yet, but you are not alone right now. If you're scared, hurt, or in trouble:
- •If you're in danger, call 911. You will not get in trouble for asking.
- •If you just need to talk, text HOME to 741741 or call 988. It's free, private, and 24/7.
- •If you're a runaway or thinking about it, call 1-800-RUNAWAY first — they can help you stay safe.
- •You can walk into any sheriff's station, fire station, or open church and ask for help. You don't need a reason.