Officials say a new safe-haven program will help shelter victims of bullying and violent crime.
The Safe Stop program is rolling out at 10 businesses in Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights. One of the first to participate is Two Scoops Ice Cream.
Participating locations will place a sign in their windows to let residents know they are working with police to create safer neighborhoods.
Participants pledge to shelter children who are being bullied and to call 911 when victims of other crimes come to their stores for help. For businesses to volunteer for the program, they must first agree to an NYPD background check.
Businesses, clergymen and local lawmakers received support from police from the 79th and 81st precincts for the program.