The National Runaway Safeline (NRS) serves as the federally-designated national communication system of runaway and homeless youth. As the go-to resource on runaway and homeless youth, NRS diligently informs the social service field and the general public on issues facing youth. more
Recent estimates indicate that one in 10 young adults age 18 to 25 and at least one in 30 adolescents age 13 to 17 experience some form of homelessness unaccompanied by a parent or guardian over the course of a year. There are at least 700,000 homeless young people in the United States, affecting about 3 percent of households with 13- to 17-year-olds1. Many of these young people don’t match the traditional idea of what “homelessness” looks like. Many of them go to school or work, participate in community activities, and enjoy social lives with friends who have safe, dependable places to sleep every night.
However, homeless youth lack the wider social networks and supports that their peers often take for granted. They may continually “couch surf,” moving from one temporary bed to another. They may lack stable adult figures in their lives to help them navigate emotional and economic obstacles. They may face additional challenges, including domestic violence, pregnancy or parenthood, or be the victims of sex or labor trafficking. They are disproportionately low-income, LGBTQ, or members of disadvantaged populations2. As adults, they are statistically likely to struggle with money, careers, and personal health3.
The Family and Youth Services Bureau (FYSB), part of the Administration for Children and Families, is one of the primary funders of programs that help runaway and homeless youth obtain shelter and learn skills that enable a successful transition to adulthood. FYSB funds several types of programs that help homeless youth: more
Circle of Parents® provides a friendly, supportive environment led by parents and other caregivers. It’s a place where anyone in a parenting role can openly discuss the successes and challenges of raising children. It’s a place where they can find and share support. more