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How We Can Help

24 hours a day, 7 days a week Reach a caring voice and listening ear when you need one.
24 hours a day,
7 days a week
Reach a caring voice and
listening ear when
you need one.


The Texas Youth & Runaway Hotline is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and provides prevention services to youths, parents, siblings, and other family members who are in need of a caring voice and listening ear.

Youth who have run away may speak with volunteer telephone counselors who are dedicated to helping youths and families in need. There are no costs for our services and the hotline is available 24 hours a day. After we've talked about your problem, we will help you consider your choices and develop a sensible solution.

Call 1-800-989-6884 for help! You may also e-mail the Youth Hotline.

The hotline counselors talk with callers who face a variety of issues, including:

  • family conflicts,
  • abuse and neglect,
  • running away,
  • difficulties with parents
  • peer pressure,
  • drugs or alcoholism,
  • delinquency or truancy,
  • Sexual identity, and
  • Getting thrown out

The hotline counselors also assist youth advocates, such as, police, caseworkers, counselors and school officials by locating state and local resources. Hotline conselors provide free information and outreach materials to those working with youth and families.

Hotline Services

The free, confidential hotline is answered by staff and volunteers who will listen to you. After assessing your problems, telephone counselors will help you consider options, explore the facts and your feelings, and develop a sensible plan of action.

Hotline telephone counselors work closely with the statewide STAR (Services to At-Risk Youth and Families) Program. The STAR provider in your area offers many services, including:

  • 24-hour crisis intervention,
  • short-term emergency residential care for youth,
  • individual, group, and family counseling,
  • skills-based training for youth and parents, and
  • follow-up services.

The hotline also provides information and referrals to other low-cost and free community services available to at-risk youth and their families.