Runaway kids are prime targets for those with intent to victimize a child. Kids who run are very often confused, scared, insecure, rebellious, and many times will trust anyone who befriends them. This makes them very vulnerable to pedophiles and others who have intent to victimize kids. Money offered to kids to take pornographic pictures can look real good to a starving kid who is on the run. Trading sexual favors or being forced into prostitution to survive the streets is common. Illegal drug distributors often get these kids hooked on crack/coke, then use them to sell their drugs. And many runaways end up horribly abused or murdered. As much as these kids are looking for freedom, the word "freedom" does not exist on the streets.
It is because of my concern for these kids that I have collected resources for runaways or those thinking about running away. I have also written A Letter From The Heart to these kids, in hopes of showing them that there are people who care and other options available for them other then running away.

If you are a parent that has concerns that your child might runaway, please have them read this letter.
If you are a kid thinking about running, please read the letter as it may bring some things to your attention that you might not have thought about.
And if you are a kid already on the run.....there are many resources to help get you off of the streets. Check out the letter and resources. Even if you feel you are not ready to get off of the streets right now, print out a list in case you change your mind.

Comment: Whether a crime is commit against a child via modem or on the streets, the persons committing these crimes are all the same. If a pedophile entices a child to come with him on the streets, he will do the same to kids via the computer. Many "real world" criminals use the computer as a hunting ground for their young, vulnerable victims.
Kids: If someone is telling you, through email, chat, or even the phone, that they "love" you, or want to help you, and attempt to convince you to runaway from home...DON'T DO IT!! Don't trust him (or her) just because they tell you that you can. If an adult really cares about you, the last thing they would want is for you to runaway. These individuals that attempt to get you to runaway are users and care more about their own interests then yours. Be smart...don't let anyone con you.

Info On Pedophiles	Important! Please Read	File Download	Excellent Links To Other Resources
Awards	Resources For Kids On The Run	Resources For Kids Part 2	A Message From The Heart For Kids

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Lynn Zwicke,

Copyright © 1997