National Runaway Safeline
Support for young people thinking about leaving home, already gone, or feeling they have nowhere to go — and for the adults who care about them.
Good to know
Free. They help you think through what's next, without judgment.
Before you call
They can
- talk with a trained crisis counselor by phone (1-800-786-2929), text to the same number, live chat or email, free, available 24/7
- listen, help you explore your options and help you make a plan to stay safe
- help you search a database of local and national youth resources, such as housing, counseling and legal aid
- through the Home Free program, help a young person aged 12 to 21 return safely to a confirmed known adult or an available safe place, at no cost to the young person: call to get started
They cannot
- promise an immediate solution: the site says it cannot guarantee one, only that it will try to help you improve your situation
- answer the forum in real time: the forum is not monitored in real time and is not for emergencies
Email is answered as soon as possible, but the hotline or live chat may connect you faster. School email accounts may not get a reply: use a personal one if you can.
In the emergency guides: I have nowhere to sleep tonight → · Someone I love is missing → · I've been told to leave home →
- Phone
- 1-800-786-2929
- Website
- https://www.1800runaway.org
- Hours
- 24/7
- Coverage
- Nationwide (U.S.)
- Languages
- English
- Best for
- Teens & youth, Parents
- Last checked
- September 6, 2026
See something out of date or wrong? Tell us by email.
Shared by FindAngel.org — free, always · https://findangel.org/resources/national-runaway-safeline/