Options to running to the streets
Many young people will tell you that though your present living situation may seem unbearable, running to the streets is not a good solution to your problems. However, living in an abusive and unsafe place is not acceptable either. If life where you live has become intolerable, before you decide to "run to the streets", answer these questions:
- Do you have a relative, teacher or someone else that you trust?
- Can you gather up the courage to tell someone you trust that you can't live where you are anymore and why?
- Do you know where your local safe house or crisis shelters are?
Here's an example for you to consider:
Jennifer had born the brunt of her father's rage since she was 3. Often the victim of physical and verbal abuse, Jennifer had twice tried to commit suicide before her 17 birthday. Ready to run to the streets, Jennifer told her best friend about her abuse, who in turn talked with Jennifer's school guidance counsellor. Through the efforts of the guidance counsellor and a social worker, Jennifer was referred to Covenant House where she stayed for 3 months before graduating from highschool and finding her own accommodation.
Tell someone you trust if you are in trouble or call Covenant House at 604-685-5437 or toll free at 1-877-685-7474.