NCJ Number
99766
Date Published
1985
Length
39 pages
Annotation
This national mail survey examined the demographic characteristics of runaway and homeless children and the special needs of agencies serving them.
Abstract
Responses were received from 210 agencies, representing more than 312 shelters and 230 foster homes in all 50 States and Puerto Rico. These agencies provided services to youth, primarily 12 to 18 years old, and from all social classes and racial/ethnic groups. Many are without homes or families; others had experienced foster care and other child welfare placements; while others had fled or been forced from their homes by abuse, neglect, or a breakdown in family structure. In addition to providing crisis intervention, many of the agencies offered counseling or other support services. Services appeared effective in meeting the needs of these youths and have resulted in a 57-percent rate of family reunion or placement of the youths in a safe living environment. A majority of agencies identified a number of critical agency and service needs, including better salaries and benefits for staff, more staff training, a service continuum (prevention, outreach, and aftercare), more independent living programs, and capital improvements to the shelter. Other needs often identified included additional mental health, education, and employment services, and programs for youth with a history of physical, sexual, or substance abuse. Policy recommendations, a list of respondents, and 36 references are provided.