Service Providers FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, our staff and trained volunteers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the 1-800-RUNAWAY hotline and online crisis services at 1800RUNAWAY.org. We listen, provide confidential support, connect youth to critical resources such as shelter and mental health services, arrange a free bus ticket home for qualifying youth, mediate conference calls and serve as a message service for youth wishing to communicate with a parent/guardian.
Yes, we offer a range of resources and services that can assist local service providers. Service providers can:
- Contact 1800RUNAWAY to speak to the NRS crisis team to access resources in a specific area from our national database;
- Assist a youth or family in accessing NRS services including crisis services, our family reunification and transportation program Home Free, mediated conference calling, and message service;
- List NRS as part of a crisis plan for youth – giving them a listening ear when they are in need;
- Access our free outreach materials to distribute in their community or co-brand;
- Implement the free Let’s Talk: Runaway Prevention Curriculum (available in English and Spanish) to teach life skills and build resiliency in the youth they are working with;
- Attend learning events held by the National Runaway Safeline;
- Utilize NRS national runaway statistics and report to assist in obtaining information about the scope of RHY issues nationally
Confirming accurate national and local statistics related to the runaway and homeless youth population is challenging. We suggest visiting Chapin Hall at the University of Chicago’s website for current statistics and information, and consulting nonprofits and agencies in your area that provide direct services to runaway and homeless youth.
We do collect statistics and other information related to our crisis services center, and often utilize this data in trend and outcome reports.
Yes, preventing youth from ending up on the street is at the core of our work. We offer free educational and outreach materials for distribution within local communities. We also conduct workshops and training sessions on prevention-related topics. Additionally, community leaders may access and utilize the interactive, evidence-based Let’s Talk: Runaway Prevention Curriculum, which is designed to teach youth critical problem-solving skills in order to safely address their needs before a crisis escalates.
We are continually building our database of reputable and safe referrals across the nation. We encourage organizations to review the criteria, and if appropriate, complete our Database Inclusion Form and Memorandum of Understanding.
November is National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM), a public awareness campaign designed to “Shine a Light” on the experiences of runaway and homeless youth that too often remain invisible. It is also an opportunity to spotlight resources available to support youth in crisis throughout the nation. The campaign’s success results from collaboration by individuals, organizations and community leaders. We encourage you to join the effort. Learn more and register your organization as an NRPM partner by visiting this page.