Youth and Young Adults

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

Hi friend. If you're young and you don't have a safe place to stay, or things at home are really hard, I'm so glad you picked this up. You are not alone, and there are people in Michigan whose job is helping young people like you.

Here is the easy first step: call 1-800-RUNAWAY any time, or dial 211 for a youth program near you. We'll walk through the rest together.

A few things to know

• You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
• Youth programs often serve people up to age 21 or 24. Ask about their age rules.
• You can ask for help even if you left home, got kicked out or aged out of foster care.

Who can I call right now?

The National Runaway Safeline is there 24/7 at 1.800.786.2929 (1-800-RUNAWAY). A crisis support specialist can listen, help you explore options and support you in staying safe.

They can also help you find local resources, and help with papers like IDs and birth certificates.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.1800runaway.org/

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It's okay not to have a plan yet

You don't need to know what's next before you call. That's what they're there for.

Are there youth shelters in Michigan?

Yes. Covenant House Michigan serves young people in Detroit and Grand Rapids.

Alternatives For Girls in Detroit has a shelter and a 24 hour line. The Ruth Ellis Center in Highland Park helps LGBTQ+ young people. Arbor Circle helps youth in Grand Rapids. Their details are later in this guide.

Michigan's housing agency also keeps a list of homeless youth and runaway service providers across the state.

Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.michigan.gov/mshda/homeless

Can I still go to school?

Yes. If you don't have a stable place to live, talk to your school.

Every school district has a homeless liaison who can help with school enrollment, rides, meals and supplies. Ask the front office for the homeless liaison.

What about food, health care and ID?

Young people can apply for Food Assistance and health coverage on MI Bridges. Guide 4 covers food, guide 7 covers health, and guide 11 covers getting your ID and birth certificate back.

Questions people ask a lot

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You deserve a safe place

Reaching out takes courage. I'm really proud of you.

How do I make the most of each call?

Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.

• Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
• Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
• Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
• Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
• Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
• Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.

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Keep going, friend

If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.

What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?

A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.

• Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
• Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
• If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
• Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
• If a state agency denies you, the letter should tell you how to ask for a hearing and the deadline. Read it right away, and call legal aid if you need help.
• Dial 211 any time to look for other options near you.

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You're doing great

Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.

Who can I call in my county?

Here is help that works across Michigan, then youth programs in the biggest counties, then an MDHHS office list for other counties. Call ahead for hours.

Federal help (works in every state)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Michigan

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Wayne County (Detroit)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Oakland County (Pontiac and nearby)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Macomb County (Clinton Township and nearby)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Kent County (Grand Rapids)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

Other counties (call your MDHHS county office)

Here are some places to start.

Other local groups may also help.

My plan

Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!

My call log

Write down every call. It helps you keep track, follow up and remember what people told you.

Key numbers to keep

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You're doing the right thing

Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.

About this guide

Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!

Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.

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Last updated October 22, 2026