After a string of attacks at a Brooklyn subway station back in January 2021, the local community came together to help their neighbors get home safely.
SafeWalks is an NYC-based public safety community initiative first started in Bushwick by Brooklyn resident Peter Kerre. Kerre started the initiative after he saw news of the attacks, mostly on women walking alone from the subway, and knew he had to do something to change that.
SafeWalks offers free accompanied walks to or from home for those who feel unsafe. Since first starting, SafeWalks has completed over 1,000 walks and have seen over 2,000 sign-ups of volunteers. Kerre is also the founder of Street Riders NYC, a bicycle activism group.
To request a SafeWalk, New Yorkers just have to fill out their Google form with at least 3 hours notice, and someone from a network of volunteers will meet you there to walk you home.
If you have an urgent request, you can DM them on Instagram @safewalksnyc.
You can stay up to date with SafeWalks on their Instagram page or their website. You can also find info on how to volunteer on this page, or if you are unable and still want to support, you can donate to them via Venmo, CashApp, or GoFundMe.
SafeWalks is currently working on its efforts after a particularly dangerous string of events on the subway in winter 2024. According to a recent Instagram post, the group says, “There is still a long way to go in making New York City safe , for the vulnerable , but we will continue to do the best we can , by walking the walk ….. with you and for you , by you.”