I'm a homeless teenager: Where do I go for help?
by Cynthia
(Prince Edward Island, Canada)
I'm 17 years old, and I have no family left. Neither one of my parents wants anything else to do with me, and I don't have a job. I'm still in school, trying to finish my last semester in grade 12, but not having a place to live is extremely hard for me, especially not knowing what to expect the next day. I'm just wondering if you know of anything that I can do to get help or how to find a place to live?
Reply from Darlene: I'm so very sorry you have to deal with this, Cynthia. It isn't right and it isn't fair. You deserve better than this horrible situation. In spite of these appalling circumstances, you are not quitting school. You are to be congratulated for staying so strong and determined; I so commend you for your decision. You have a great deal of inner strength; be very proud of that.
Cynthia, there are resources out there that are in place to help you. Speak to your counsellor at school; the school needs to know your personal situation.
Some other resources:
Contact Child Protection/Youth Services. In Charlottetown, the number is (902) 368-6161. According to the government website, Maureen MacEwen is the contact. If this information is outdated, your school counsellor will have the current number and contact person. Your counsellor will either make the call for you, or s/he can be there for you when you make the call for yourself.
Kids Helpline is another valuable resource for you. They can be reached at 1-800-668-6868. There is every chance they will refer you to Child Protection Services.
A local women's shelter is yet another resource. For more information, in Charlottetown the numbers are: (902) 892-0960 or Toll-free: 1-800-240-9894. But again, they will likely refer you to Child Protection Services, so contact them first.
Keep your head up, Cynthia. There are people out there willing to help. Just reach out to them in the same way you've reached out to me. And please, let me know how you are doing. I really do care.
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