Approximately 7 in 10 missing children reports are classified as runaways. Now is the time to work together to prevent youth from feeling that running away is their only choice.

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🟩 What Is National Runaway Prevention Month?  

National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM) is a nationwide campaign held each November to raise awareness about the experiences of runaway and at-risk youth. It focuses on prevention, education, and community support, while highlighting resources available to help youth stay safe and connected.

This year’s theme, “Support Every Step – Because No Youth Should Walk Alone”, reminds us that every runaway has a story, and every step they take is a choice.

We invite you to be a reason they choose safety.

 

🎯 Why It Matters

  • 72% of all reported missing children/youth in 2024 were identified as runaways. 
  • Youth run away due to family conflict, abuse, mental health challenges, and lack of support.
  • 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. 

 

By participating in NRPM, you help raise awareness, offer support and build safer communities for youth across Canada.

**Statistics are from the Runaway Report conducted by the National Centre for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains. 

 

📅 Key Campaign Dates

  • Kickoff: November 1, 2025
  • Go Green Day: November 4, 2025
  • #SupportEveryStep Challenge: November 17-21, 2025
    • This week, we’re sharing the Challenge Badge as a symbol of standing with youth. 💚 We invite you to share the badge to show young people that you’ve got their back, whether it’s through mentoring, volunteering, listening, or simply showing up. Tell us how you support youth in your community! Tag us and use #SupportEveryStep to spread the message.

 

📥 Resources for the Public

  • Resources: Includes infographics, conversation guides, social media templates, and the #SupportEveryChallenge Badge.

Infographic | 10 Warning Signs | Reality of Running Away | #SupportEveryStep Challenge Badge |  Social Media Template, Go Green Day  

Social Media Template, Support Every Step Challenge  |  Your Guide

  • Statistics & Research:

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

 

  • Youth Support Map: Find shelters, soup kitchens, teen health and safe spaces across Canada.

 

 

 

 

Go Green Day - November 4, 2025

On November 4, 2025 and throughout the month of November, landmarks across Canada are lighting up green in recognition of National Runaway Prevention Month.

This interactive map highlights the buildings, landmarks, and monuments across the country that are lighting up green to shine a light on the issue of youth running away and to remind every young person that they are not alone.

Each green light represents a community taking a stand. It’s a simple, powerful way to stand together and say, “You’re not alone."

💡 View the map to see who’s lighting up in solidarity this month.

 

📣 How You Can Help

  • Wear Green or Light Up Your Space on November 4 to show support. Send us pictures to lmantle@mcsc.ca 
  • Join the #SupportEveryStep Challenge: Share the challenge badge, and post how you support youth in your community.
  • Learn & Educate: Educate yourself on warning signs, and how to listen and respond when a youth needs help. Share resources with your friends and family so they can be aware also.
  • Volunteer: Volunteer your time with a youth shelter, crisis line, or mentoring program.
  • Donate: Donate to organizations providing youth services, safe housing, meals, mental health supports etc. 
  • Be a Safe Adult: Commit to being a trusted person in a young person's life.  Sometimes, the simplest act is the most powerful, being there. 
  • Partner With Us: If your organization supports youth, families, or vulnerable communities, join us as an NRPM partner. We’ll feature your work and share your support across our platforms to strengthen awareness and connect more young people to help.

 

 

 

📬 Contact & Media Inquiries

Email: info@mcsc.ca  |  Phone: 1-800-661-6160  |  Website: www.mcsc.ca