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National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM) has been taking place every November for two decades in the United States, started by the United National Runaway Safeline, but has not been widely promoted in Canada.
What is it? NRPM is an annual awareness campaign held every November to highlight the issues faced by runaway and homeless youth. The goal is to educate the public, raise awareness, and prevent youth from running away through supportive services, advocacy, and education.
Why is it important? We know that when a child is missing from a safe environment, the danger of exposure to high-risk activities such as substance misuse, sexual exploitation, human trafficking and even the risk of death increases. A missing child is a vulnerable child in need of immediate protection, regardless of why they are missing, The is why it's crucial to focus on preventing youth from running away in the first place before these dangers become a reality.
What can you do? This month, you can help raise awareness about youth runaways, homelessness and prevention, wear green on November 14, 2024 to show your support, and register for MCSC rescu Child Search Alerts, to receive alerts in your area when high-risk children go missing. (Visit MCSC rescu to register at no cost)
What is MCSC doing? For the month of November, we are shining a spotlight on the issues faced by runaway and homeless youth. The goal is to raise awareness, promote prevention and empower youth. By understanding their options and resources, we can prevent them from feeling like running away is their only choice. Every child deserves safety, support and a voice. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to help us shine the light for youth.
In May 2024, the National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains (NCMPUR) released a report, Exploring the Phenomenon of Reported Runaways in Canada 2015-2021 available through the Canada’s Missing website. It emphasized the importance of increasing awareness and putting effort into prevention. Read the report here: Exploring the Phenomenon of Reported Runaways in Canada 2015-2021 - National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains
Thank you to those who will be lighting up Green to show their support this month!
Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Victoria
Calgary Tower
CN Tower, Toronto
3D Toronto Sign
St.John's City Hall, Newfoundland
High Level Bridge, Edmonton, AB
Province House, Halifax
Riel Esplanade, Winnipeg
Parc Olympique, Montreal
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Thank you to the incredible organizations partnering with us to shine a light on National Runaway Prevention Month! Together, we’re creating safer spaces and resources for youth across Canada. Your support makes a real difference in preventing runaway situations and ensuring every young person knows they’re not alone.
