For crisis intervention for unaccompanied minors who have nowhere to stay, contact the nearest Runaway & Homeless Youth (RHY) provider. RHY providers are trained to provide crucial support and services to minors without judgment. There are currently three RHY Basic Center Programs in CT that provide services and crisis beds for unaccompanied minors:
- Kids in Crisis (Cos Cob)’s 24/7 hotline: 203-661-1911
- Youth Continuum (New Haven)’s 24/7 hotline: 203-838-4732
- GBAPP (Bridgeport)’s 24/7 hotline: 475-400-0868
- Infoline 211 can connect you to these and other resources and is available 24/7.
The National Runaway Safeline (NRS): call or text 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929)
NRS offers a crisis hotline and online services 24/7 to youth at risk of running away, those who have run away or are experiencing homelessness, and their families. Unaccompanied minors can communicate with a trusted, compassionate person who will listen and help create a plan to address their concerns.
For school registration while homeless, contact CT State Department of Education (CSDE): 860-807-2058 or Louis.Tallarita@ct.gov
The McKinney-Vento Act provides for many rights and protections for students experiencing homelessness, including: the opportunity for “school selection,” immediate enrollment in school without proof of residency, immunizations, or school records during any period of homelessness, and free school meals, if needed.
See Department of Education for information on CSDE’s supports for students experiencing homelessness. A list of McKinney-Vento Liaisons for each school district can be searched here.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Call or text today.