A new initiative is helping make bodegas in our community a safer place for workers and its visitors.

A total of 75 cameras now watch over bodegas in the Bronx, Washington Heights and Harlem. The cameras are all part of a new free program that looks to keep the bad guys out and the consumer in.

"We were seeing folks who were coming in causing harm to the owners, to the people who work there and to other customers. And we wanted to give them an opportunity to feel safe," said Septimo.

It's a partnership between the Bodega & Small Business Group and Assembly Member Amanda Septimo. The nearly $1 million investment looks to tackle violence in what many consider a community safe haven.

"We've been facing a lot of challenges with the violence, not too much consequence," said Bodega & Small Business Group President Francisco Marte.

Cameras aren't the only thing helping keep people safe - bodega owners are also being given a panic button to call for help.