Last year the National Run-away Safeline received 4,235 calls from Texas alone. In 2016, Bexar County was third-highest in the number of youth reported missing in Texas. Keep in mind these are statistics on the number of reported cases alone. So many more children are unaccounted for after being thrown-away or aging out of foster care. They are left to fend for themselves.
Research shows that youth forced to survive on the streets will be confronted by a predator in as little as 48 hours. As community members and service providers, this issue can have a heavy toll on our clients, our community, and our families. What can we do to help protect them?
On Wednesday, December 5th from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, a free workshop will be held at YWCA Olga Madrid Center, 503 Castroville Rd The objective of this workshop is to (a) discuss the risks that runaway, thrown-away and/or otherwise vulnerable youth face on the streets; (b) learn to identify and report trafficking/exploitation; and (c) how to help youth find resources and protection. 3.0 CEUs will be provided free of charge to social workers who attend the entire workshop.
To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/how-to-protect-runaway-or-thrown-away-youth-tickets-52551329441
Please direct questions toad-vocacyworkshops2018@gmail.com
