QuikTrip Joins Forces with Safe Place to Expand Crisis Support Across 1,200 Stores

QuikTrip Expands Safe Place® Partnership Nationwide

In an effort to provide crucial support for young individuals in crisis, QuikTrip (QT) is launching an expanded partnership with the National Safe Place Network. This initiative will allow youth to connect to immediate help at more than 1,200 QT locations across 21 states, enabling them to access TXT 4 HELP, a free and confidential crisis text service.

This announcement comes during National Safe Place Week, emphasizing QT's commitment to aiding young people facing hardships such as abuse or homelessness. The full implementation of this service is set to be completed by June 1, ensuring that quick and efficient support will be available in many communities.

Kevin Thornton, President of QuikTrip, highlighted the significance of this service, stating, "Young people facing difficult circumstances should always have a place they can turn to for help. Our employees have been proud to support the Safe Place program for decades, and by expanding TXT 4 HELP, we ensure that youth receive essential support swiftly and confidentially."

The Safe Place initiative has been providing youth access points for over 30 years, connecting them with trained professionals and resources in times of need. The collaboration with the National Safe Place Network signifies a vital step toward guaranteeing that everyone, regardless of their location, can find safety and assistance.

Laurie Padilla, CEO of the National Safe Place Network, expressed the importance of this initiative, saying, "Finding a Safe Place can be lifechanging for young people in crisis. We are honored to partner with QuikTrip to extend the TXT 4 HELP program nationwide, enhancing access to support when it is needed most."

To utilize the TXT 4 HELP service, youth in distress simply text "SAFE" along with their location (city, state, or ZIP code) to 4HELP (44357). In seconds, they receive responses indicating the nearest Safe Place, contact details for local agencies or shelters, and an option to chat confidentially with a mental health professional. This text-based approach is particularly beneficial for those who may hesitate to seek help face-to-face.

Over the past year, QuikTrip employees have already facilitated 268 Safe Place calls nationally, collaborating with 24 partner agencies to direct young individuals to essential resources and services that can assist them in their crises. As QT continues to expand into new communities, this program reinforces their role as a trusted support network for youths in challenging situations.

Lauren Sherry, Community Relations Manager at QuikTrip, emphasized the critical role of partner agencies, stating, "Our Safe Place partner agencies are essential to supporting young people and enriching communities. As we grow, the TXT 4 HELP initiative enables each store to serve as a rapid connection point for youth in need."

For more information on TXT 4 HELP and the National Safe Place Network, you can visit their websites at national safe place.

About QuikTrip

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, QuikTrip Corporation has grown into an $11 billion company known for its high-quality products and excellent service. The company is dedicated to supporting the communities it serves and continues to expand its reach and impact.

About National Safe Place Network

The National Safe Place Network (NSPN) is dedicated to protecting youth during crises through its network of Safe Place locations and TXT 4 HELP services. It also provides essential training and resources to agencies serving youth and families across the nation. For further information, visit NSP Network.