With thanks to Starbucks for being our first partner!
The Boston Police Department (BPD) is proud to partner with local businesses, organizations, and institutions as we launch the Safe Space program, a community-based initiative that promotes safety, dignity, and inclusion for all who live, work, or visit our city.
The program is rooted in BPD’s core mission: to work in partnership with the community to fight crime, reduce fear, and improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods. The Safe Space Program supports this mission by creating visible, accessible places where individuals can find safety and support in moments of crisis or vulnerability.
What Is a Safe Space?
A Safe Space is a designated location—such as a storefront, café, or other brick and mortar institution—where individuals facing violence, threats, harassment, discrimination, or fear can go to seek assistance.
These spaces are:
– Marked by an official BPD Safe Space window decal.
– Staffed by individuals who will assist in calling first responders when needed.
– Trusted community places where people can feel safe, respected, and wait for first responders.
– Places to call and wait for first responders; no one in these locations is asked to put themselves in danger.
Why this Program Matters:
Boston is home to a diverse population, however, incidents of hate, bias, harassment, or violence can occur anywhere. People may be targeted for a number of reasons, including: race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, mental or physical disability, or immigration status. No one should feel alone if something like this sadly occurs.
The Safe Space Program aims to:
– Provide refuge and reassurance in moments of fear or danger.
– Signal public support for equity, safety, and belonging.
– Build stronger connections between the community and police.
– Prevent hate and bias-based incidents through early intervention and trust-building.
Commissioner Michael Cox thanks Starbucks for signing on as BPD’s first partner in this initiative. Starbucks will offer Safe Spaces in 35 stores across the City.
“The mission of the Boston Police Department is Community Policing and we must partner with our residential, business and nonprofit communities to participate in public safety together. We are asking other partners in our City to join us as Safe Spaces for those in need of a place where they are welcome and can safely call 911.”
The participating Starbucks locations are helping BPD kick off this new initiative in time for PRIDE festivities this weekend.
Any businesses or locations interested in participating are asked to contact the Bureau of Community Engagement at BCE@pd.boston.gov or call (617) 343-4345.
Media with questions or in need of more information are asked to please reach out to BPD Media Relations.
