I am 14 and want to runaway to an orphanage

[Guest]

I am 12 and want to run away from home and go to an orphanage. Would that be a good idea to cause I have to leave this place and thats my only option

[ccsmod2]

Hello There,

Thank you for reaching out to The National Runaway Safeline, we are here to help and here to listen. It sounds like you are dealing with a lot right now and we want you to know that you are not alone.
We are not legal experts but we do have some information on running away. If you were to leave home without permission your legal guardian could file a runaway report, and if the police were to find you they most likely would bring you back home. If you were to runaway to an orphanage they would also contact your legal guardian or the police.

We would like to help you further with your situation but we would need more information on what is going on. We are available 24/7 to listen and to provide support to you. Best of luck,
NRS

[Guest]

Hi I’m 15 and I like to join an orphanage cause my family is really bad they gaslight me and call me horrible names wen they upset and they a gang up on me sometimes... then wen they in front of other people they act all happy and good... then my mom talks about me on the phone with other people so they’ll go against me... I hope u see this cause I want out of this family plz

[ccsmod2]

Hello There,
Thank you so much for reaching out to The National Runaway Safeline, we are here to help and here to listen. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help, and we are glad that you have decided to reach out to us.
You do not deserve to be gas lighted and we are sorry you are having to deal with that. We know you mentioned wanting to leave and go to an orphanage, we are not legal experts but we do have some information. If you were to leave without permission your legal guardian does have the right to file a runaway report. Because you are a minor if the police were to find you they most likely would bring you home.
It can be tough to deal with the things at home alone, we want you to know you do not have to deal with it alone. One resource that may help you is called NAMI (national alliance for mental illnesses). They can offer support and resources and can be reached at 1800-950-NAMI. Another option to consider would be to speak with a trusted adult or school counselor about what is going on at home.
We hope that this information will help you in your situation. If you have any other questions or would like to explore more options please give us a call. We are available 24/7 to listen and provide support.
NRS

[Guest]

i want to know where can i stay if i runaway from home i am age 15 and its getting very difficult for me to stay home and i am too sad to even think about a new family lets just say i dont have any hope left

[ccsmod0]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It seems there is a lot that you are faced with right now and you’re feeling like leaving is one of your only options. It seems you want to know some information on runaway laws.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
The easiest way to leave home is with your parents' permission. We understand that might be challenging, however, maybe there’s another family member, relative, or a family friend who could help to communicate how you’re feeling to your parents. The second way is through Child Protective Services if safety is a concern. Lastly, you can also look into emancipation options. In most states you need to be at least 16 to be considered and demonstrate that you can support yourself financially and independently. Emancipation often can be a lengthy process and may even cost some money for court fees. We would be happy to look into legal resources if that’s something you are considering.
We are here as support to help through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email to assist you. If you would like to talk more in detail please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button). If you would like to look into further emotional support options, you can text with a crisis worker at the National Alliance on Mental Illness 24/7 by texting "NAMI" to 741741.
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
Be safe,
NRS

[Guest]

Ok so im 13 and my parents aren't that bad but are really mean, unfair and overprotective, they yell alot at me and eachother and when I try to talk about it they push me away and tell me im over exaggerating. Sometimes when my mom's really mad at me she might pinch me or grab my arms and squeeze them real tight, the more I resist the harder she squeezes, It only leaves red marks but was worse when I was younger. Anyways I want to run away and find a good place next to water to build a small hidden shelter and live a while, Im a good survivalist and will practice before I go, bring some stuff too. But I have some questions, If I go will I be able to attend a school with them knowing, or without them knowing, will they ask too many questions, and will I be able to join a foster home or something afterwards? I cant call but please just answer these questions, I just need to know, like is it even legal, I would go to one of those places that the 'country owns' so I would be able to live and would the foster people send me back home? Please help. Contact me at ******Thank you.

[ccsmod0]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It seems there is a lot that you are faced with right now and you’re feeling like leaving is one of your only options. It seems you want to know some information on runaway laws.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
The easiest way to leave home is with your parents' permission. We understand that might be challenging, however, maybe there’s another family member, relative, or a family friend who could help to communicate how you’re feeling to your parents. The second way is through Child Protective Services if safety is a concern. Lastly, you can also look into emancipation options. In most states you need to be at least 16 to be considered and demonstrate that you can support yourself financially and independently. Emancipation often can be a lengthy process and may even cost some money for court fees. We would be happy to look into legal resources if that’s something you are considering.
We are here as support to help through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email to assist you. If you would like to talk more in detail please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button). If you would like to look into further emotional support options, you can text with a crisis worker at the National Alliance on Mental Illness 24/7 by texting "NAMI" to 741741.
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
Be safe,
NRS

[Guest]

I'm gonna run away because my dad says he's gonna kill me and hit me he spits in my face and I don't fill safe anymore what do I do pls help

[ccsmod7]

Hi there, thanks for reaching out. That sounds scary that your dad said he is going to kill you, and that seems so hurtful that he hits you and spits in your face. You deserve to be treated with respect and human dignity. Here at NRS, we truly want to be a support for you during this difficult time.

You mentioned your dad saying he is going to kill you, and here at NRS, we are concerned for your safety. If you feel like you are in immediate danger please call 9-1-1. Please do not hesitate to call or chat us if you would like assistance reaching out to police or Child Protective Services (CPS), nothing is more important than your safety 1-800-RUNAWAY; www.1800runaway.org.

You mentioned that your dad has threatened your life and hit you; which could potentially be reported to CPS if you are interested in having the abuse investigated. If you would like assistance reporting please do not hesitate to call or chat us. Reporting can be a big step so it's good to be informed about what could happen, you might also reach out to the expert child advocates at Child Help: www.childhelp.org to chat or talk over the phone about what could happen in your situation.

Again please do not hesitate to call or chat us if you would like immediate assistance. We are always here for you.

Best,

NRS

[Guest]

I am 14 I want to runaway from my house as they don't allow me to do anything I want they scold me for everything I do and never buy me anything or let me do what I want how can I live I in a safe place earn money and study on my own and graduate for a better life

[ccsmod15]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It seems there is a lot that you are faced with right now and you’re feeling like leaving is one of your only options. It seems you want to know some information on runaway laws.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
We are here as support to help through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by forum to assist you. If you would like to talk more in detail please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button).
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
Be safe,
NRS

[Guest]

I want to leave this hell hole

[ccsmod0]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out. It seems there is a lot that you are faced with right now and you’re feeling like leaving is one of your only options. It seems you want to know some information on runaway laws.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
The easiest way to leave home is with your parents' permission. We understand that might be challenging, however, maybe there’s another family member, relative, or a family friend who could help to communicate how you’re feeling to your parents. The second way is through Child Protective Services if safety is a concern. Lastly, you can also look into emancipation options. In most states you need to be at least 16 to be considered and demonstrate that you can support yourself financially and independently. Emancipation often can be a lengthy process and may even cost some money for court fees. We would be happy to look into legal resources if that’s something you are considering.
We are here as support to help through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email to assist you. If you would like to talk more in detail please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button). If you would like to look into further emotional support options, you can text with a crisis worker at the National Alliance on Mental Illness 24/7 by texting "NAMI" to 741741.
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
Be safe,
NRS

[Guest]

I need a good place to stay other than this place I stay in I feel my mom has been acting really weird since she’s move out here in Tennessee always screaming every single day can’t take it just wishing I can have different perspective on live other than having no one that doesn’t understand you

[Guest]

Hi I'm 13 and I was wondering is I could run away and never have to see my family again. My parents are super rude and whenever they are even a little mad they will try to hurt me and I am literally scared for my life. I don't want to get court involved because they are super good liars, but I just need to get out of here as soon as possible. I live in Virginia and I want to find an orphanage/adoption agency as soon as possible and be able to move far out of state. Please help!

[ccsmod15]

First of all, thank you so much for reaching out to us today. We know it can sometimes be scary and difficult to reach out for help. It takes a lot of courage. It sounds like you’re unhappy with the way your parents are treating you. You do not deserve to be treated with disrespect.

You mention you are scared for your life. Your safety is our biggest priority here at NRS. If you feel like you are unsafe in your house because of your parents, one option is reaching out to Child Protective Services for them to open an investigation. If you want to chat or call us, we can also help you reach out to them.

In terms of leaving your house, it is not illegal to run away. However, if you do runaway, your parents could file a runaway report and the police could potentially go looking for you and try to bring you home. If you do decide to do that, you can reach out to us and we can provide some resources for you such as youth shelters in your area.

Lastly, you are welcome to contact us through chat at 1800runaway.com or call at 1-800-RUNAWAY anytime. We are available 24/7 and would be happy to talk through your situation more in depth and offer resources. Please do not hesitate to reach out.

Best of luck and stay strong,
NRS

[Guest]

Hi,
I’m currently 14 turning 15 in less than 2 months, I’m not liking how I’m living life right now with my parents separated and their different partners and how I get involved in all their problems. Don’t get me wrong my parents are great but I’ve had enough of everything and not doing what I feel will help me. I’m currently living with my mom, her bf, my brother, big sister, little niece, and little nephew. My sister has decided that she’ll be moving out next year or this year if she can and I’m afraid of staying with my parents and bare all of this alone.. I really want to runaway and just be on my own. I have $350 saved right now but I’m sure that won’t keep me alive forever. I want to go to an orphanage out of town since they don’t have any here, I’d like to help an orphanage take care of the kids in them. I just want to do whats best for me and my mental health but I’m afraid.

[ccsmod0]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It seems there is a lot that you are faced with right now and you’re feeling like leaving is one of your only options. It seems you want to know some information on runaway laws.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
The easiest way to leave home is with your parents' permission. We understand that might be challenging, however, maybe there’s another family member, relative, or a family friend who could help to communicate how you’re feeling to your parents. The second way is through Child Protective Services if safety is a concern. Lastly, you can also look into emancipation options. In most states you need to be at least 16 to be considered and demonstrate that you can support yourself financially and independently. Emancipation often can be a lengthy process and may even cost some money for court fees. We would be happy to look into legal resources if that’s something you are considering.
We are here as support to help through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email to assist you. If you would like to talk more in detail please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button). If you would like to look into further emotional support options, you can text with a crisis worker at the National Alliance on Mental Illness 24/7 by texting "NAMI" to 741741.
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
Be safe,
NRS

[Guest]

I am 13 and I want to run away from my family without letting them know and I dont want to be in this family anymore

[ccsmod13]

Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It sounds like you’re quite overwhelmed by things at home right now and you are not feeling supported. Often, having a safe space to share how you’re feeling may bring a variety of solutions previously not thought of. You are not alone in this. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time.

If you would like to talk more in detail please chat soon through our website www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button) if you are unable to call in. We unfortunately cannot give advice as we are non-directive. You know your situation best

We hope to hear from you soon.

Be safe,
NRS

[Guest]

ive wanted to runaway for some time now because their are times when my brother gets extremely angry and tries to hurt me and put me down and while they might be my family i just dont think of them as family, to me my family has basically always been my friends

[ccsmod15]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It sounds like you are very worried about your brother when he gets angry. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email or bulletin for assistance. If you would like to talk more in detail and share more about how we can help specifically, please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button).
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
We hope to hear from you soon.
Be safe, NRS

[Guest]

Hello, I am 15 and I am really thinking about running away even though my life at home isnt that bad I just can't take it anymore I need help on where I can go

[ccsmod16]

Hi, Thanks for reaching out; we are glad that you did. It sounds like things aren't really bad at home, but you are going through some things that are making it hard. It's understandable to want to leave problems behind, but the hardest part about running away is having a place to go.
We hope that you will reach out to us so that we can talk this over as that is the best way for us to be of help. You can reach us either by phone at 1-800-786-2929 (1-800-RUNAWAY) or through this website and the live chat option on the homepage.
We really are here to listen and help.
We hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
NRS

[Guest]

Hello, my current bf is 14 and he is in an abusive household. He wants to runaway to an orphanage and even change states but he doesn’t have his phone or any devices because of his mom. I want to help him but I’m not to sure on advice to give, of anyone here can help me out I would highly appreciate it

[ccsmod0]

You can share the following information with your boyfriend

It seems there is a lot that you are faced with right now and you’re feeling like leaving is one of your only options. It seems you want to know some information on runaway laws.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
The easiest way to leave home is with your parents' permission. We understand that might be challenging, however, maybe there’s another family member, relative, or a family friend who could help to communicate how you’re feeling to your parents. The second way is through Child Protective Services if safety is a concern. Lastly, you can also look into emancipation options. In most states you need to be at least 16 to be considered and demonstrate that you can support yourself financially and independently. Emancipation often can be a lengthy process and may even cost some money for court fees. We would be happy to look into legal resources if that’s something you are considering.

[Guest]

Hi, I am 12 years old and I want to runaway. Im not abused physically nor verbally its just that my parents put pressure on me because of my modules. We dont have a bond and all so I think it's easy for me to let go of them. Im just worried about my future. I made a promise to myself that when I become an adult I'll pay them for the things that they done to me but never take care of them. For now, I'm using them to secure my future. The reason why I'm alive to this day aswell. What should I do because they're getting at my nerve now.

[ccsmod15]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email or bulletin for assistance. If you would like to talk more in detail and share more about how we can help specifically, please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button).
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
We hope to hear from you soon.
Be safe,
NRS