The city of Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne Community Schools and the Fort Wayne Mad Ants on Thursday announced a plan for “Safe Havens” that will provide places for children to take refuge when they feel threatened.

The Safe Haven program, which includes businesses, homes and schools, is described by city officials as an extension of the police department's Mad Ants Safety Awareness Program.

That program teaches elementary students in FWCS about safety concerns children may face in person and online.

Participating homes and businesses will have a Safe Haven decal in a front window. The businesses and residents will go through background checks before being accepted into the program.

Businesses and residents in Fort Wayne that want to be part of the Safe Haven network should call Jeff Johnson at 469-4667, Ext. 110.