[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 134 (Friday, October 11, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1837]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  ON INTRODUCING A RESOLUTION CONCERNING NATIONAL RUNAWAY PREVENTION 
                                 MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE ISRAEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 10, 2002

  Mr. ISRAEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a resolution that 
recognizes the goals and ideals of National Runaway Prevention Month, 
which is sponsored by two organizations that work with runaway youth: 
the National Network for Youth and the National Runaway Switchboard.
  These two organizations have chosen the month of November to bring 
attention to the important issue of runaway youth. The prevalence of 
young people who leave their home is confounding, with one out of every 
seven youth in the United States running away at least once before the 
age of 18. Studies suggest that between 1.3 million and 2.8 million 
young people live on the streets of the United States each year.
  Preventing young people from running away is a national priority, as 
today's young people are tomorrow's teachers, doctors, workers and 
leaders. The hardships that runaway youth face on the streets would be 
too much for an adult to face. The impact on the young person, as well 
as society, is staggering.
  National Runaway Prevention Month will bring national attention to 
this important issue and remind parents of the importance of 
effectively communicating with their kids. All of the conditions that 
lead young people to leave their homes are preventable when families 
are strong and when young people can find the support they need.
  I am hopeful that the recognition of this issue will prevent other 
young people from running away by stressing the importance of families 
and communities.

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