16 year old feels that there is no one to turn to and wants to runaway

[Unregistered]

My daughter knows a 16 year old boy that is getting hit on a regular basis by his step-dad and wants to runaway. The boy lives in a small town in AZ and his parents have influence with the police and the school. She has told me what is going on and the boy does not feel that there is anyone he can turn to. My daughter and I have talked about different scenarios however, my biggest concern is if he stays he will continue to be hit, if he leaves and gets brought back the abuse will be worse. He feels betrayed by his relatives and everyone around him. Is there any place he can run to that would be a safe place that would protect him from his step-dad?

[ccsmod1]

RE: 16 year old feels that there is no one to turn to and wants to runaway

Hello,

Thanks for reaching out to us for help. This sounds like a really difficult situation. Every child deserves to feel safe in their home. It sounds like your daughters friend is going through a really tough time right now. Making a child abuse report is an option. If you want more information about child abuse and reporting, Child Help USA might be a good resource for you. Their number is 1-800-4-A-CHILD (422-4453). If you want to make a report, you can call the statewide child abuse reporting hotline for Arizona at 888-767-2445. If he needs a safe place to go, we might be able to help him find a safe place or shelter to go to. If you have any more questions, please give us a call or pass our number along. You can reach us 24/7 at 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929) or chat with us online every day between 4:30pm and 11:30pm CST on www.1800RUNAWAY.org. Thank you so much for reaching out to try to help this youth. We wish you the best of luck.