Amid an ongoing issue of violence and alcohol use in Katherine homes, children have identified their own safe places and are walking long distances to get there, CEO of Kalano Community Association, Bill Headley said.

But a new bus operating from 7pm until 3am is ensuring the youth get from A to B safely.

In its first week, the Youth Outreach and Patrol Team, a joint effort between Kalano Community Association and the Department of Chief Minister, picked up 123 young people off Katherine streets.

Running from Wednesday until Saturday, Mr Headley said he only expects demand to pick up.

"There are kids as young as nine years old walking the street at night," he said.

"Out interest is in making sure they are in a residence that is safe and protected."

The ongoing issue of youth crime plaguing Katherine over the past year has led to a town outcry, Mr Headley said.

"This is our answer.

"If they are not wondering the streets, there is less chance of them getting into trouble with the law or worse."

Two youth outreach workers, Tom House and Krysten Telford, will be manning the bus until the early hours of the morning, four nights per week.

The bus, clearly identified by the large Kalano Logo and "Katherine Youth Outreach and Transport Service" has been kept busy from the get go.

And the feedback from the youth has so far been positive.

"We want to be seen as something the kids run towards, not away," Mr Headley said.

"We don't want to be authoritarian we want to be a safe option."

"We pull up and offer a lift, once they see the Kalano logo and that we are not a taxi or the police there is an ease that overcomes them."

There are rules in place which only allow the youth to be dropped off at a safe residence.

"It is a 'no' if they ask to be dropped off in the CBD," Mr Headley said.

"They have to choose a residential house and we ask a series of questions to assess whether it is safe or not."

While the program is in its infancy, the organisers have already identified shortfalls in Katherine services for youth who do not have a safe refuge.

Mr Headley said he sees the need for a 24 hour drop-in centre dedicated to young people

"Previously kids were getting a taxi home at extortionate prices or staying out all night.

"This has been going on for years and what we are trying to do is help these youth lead a better lifestyle."

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