Number: RL33785
Title: Runaway and Homeless Youth: Demographics and Programs
Authors: Adrienne L. Fernandes, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: Congress began to hear concerns about the vulnerabilities of the runaway population in the 1970s due to increased awareness about these youth and the establishment of runaway shelters to assist them in returning home. Since that time, Congress has authorized services to provide support for runaway and homeless youth outside of the juvenile justice, mental health, and child welfare systems. The Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA), as currently amended, authorizes federal funding for three programs to assist runaway and homeless youth - the Basic Center Program (BCP), Transitional Living Program (TLP), and Street Outreach Program (SOP) - through FY2013.1 These programs make up the Runaway and Homeless Youth Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Pages: 34
Date: October 14, 2008