IMMEDIATE SAFETY & SHELTER

• 24-hour locations: Hospitals (waiting rooms), airports, some McDonald's/Walmart locations
• Libraries: Warmth, bathrooms, WiFi, quiet space during day hours
• 24-hour laundromats: Safe, warm, well-lit, often have seating
• Churches: Many have overnight programs or can direct to resources
• College campuses: Often have 24-hour study areas, security presence
• Rest stops/truck stops: Highway rest areas with facilities
• Emergency shelters: Call 211 for local availability

COLD WEATHER:

• Layer system: Multiple thin layers trap more heat than one thick item
• Emergency blankets: Mylar/space blankets reflect 90% of body heat, lightweight
• Cardboard: Excellent insulation from ground cold
• Newspaper: Stuff inside clothes for insulation
• Hand/foot warmers: Available at dollar stores, last 8+ hours
• Cover your head: 40% of body heat lost through head/neck

HOT WEATHER:

• Shade seeking: Bridges, overpasses, library steps
• Cooling centers: Many cities open during heat waves (call 211)
• Wet bandana: Around neck for cooling
• Light-colored clothing: Reflects heat better than dark colors
• Hydration: Water is critical - know all free sources
• Avoid alcohol/drugs: Increases dehydration risk

RAIN PROTECTION:

• Plastic bags: Waterproof important items (ID, phone, medications)
• Tarps: Versatile shelter material, available at hardware stores
• Covered areas: Bus stops, overhangs, covered parking
• Dry clothes: Keep at least one set completely dry

• Food banks: No questions asked, often allow weekly visits
• Churches: Many serve free meals weekly
• Sikh temples (Gurdwaras): Serve free meals to all visitors daily
• Soup kitchens: Search online for local schedules
• Food pantries: Take-home groceries, often available monthly
• Community fridges: Increasingly common in urban areas
• Dumpster diving: Legal in most places, focus on grocery stores/bakeries
• Restaurant closing times: Many throw away good food

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Don't need permanent address to apply
• WIC: For pregnant women, infants, children under 5
• School meals: If in school, free breakfast/lunch programs available
• Senior meal programs: For those 60+ years old
• Mobile food trucks: Many cities have roving food programs

• Public fountains: Parks, schools, government buildings
• Fast food restaurants: Usually provide free water cups
• Libraries: Water fountains and often bottle-filling stations
• Parks and recreation centers: Usually have multiple fountains
• Gas stations: Most will provide cup of water if asked politely
• Churches: Often have outdoor spigots
• Cemeteries: Frequently have water sources for flowers

• No-cook meals: Peanut butter, bread, canned goods with pull-tops
• Dollar store options: Canned ravioli, soup, crackers, peanut butter
• Portable can opener: Essential tool to carry
• Plastic utensils: Keep a set with you
• Cooler alternative: Styrofoam cooler with ice from gas stations

• Public restrooms: Fast food, gas stations, libraries, parks
• Gym day passes: Planet Fitness often offers free first visit
• YMCA: Guest privileges often include shower access
• Truck stops: Usually have showers ($12-15, worth it for safety)
• Beach/lake facilities: Public showers during summer
• Hospitals: Emergency rooms have bathrooms with sinks
• Baby wipes: When showers aren't available
• Dry shampoo: Or use baby powder to absorb oil

• Laundromats: $3-5 per load, often have seating/warmth
• Hand washing: Sink with soap and hot water
• Clothes donations: Goodwill, Salvation Army, local churches
• Free laundry programs: Some cities offer homeless laundry services

• Emergency rooms: Cannot legally turn away anyone
• Community health centers: Sliding fee scale based on income
• Free clinics: Search online for local options
• Planned Parenthood: Reproductive health regardless of ability to pay
• Dental schools: Reduced-cost dental care from students
• Mental health hotlines: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)
• Medication assistance: Many pharmaceutical companies have programs

• Travel in groups: When possible, safety in numbers
• Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, it probably is
• Keep important items hidden: Don't display cash, phone, valuables
• Know escape routes: Always have a plan to leave quickly
• Emergency contacts: Memorize important phone numbers
• Legal ID: Keep safe and dry - essential for services

• Day labor: Construction, moving, cleaning jobs
• Plasma donation: $20-50 per donation (varies by location)
• Odd jobs: Craigslist gigs, TaskRabbit, neighborhood help
• Recycling: Aluminum cans, bottles in states with deposits
• Street performance: If you have musical/artistic skills
• Church work: Many pay for yard work, cleaning, simple tasks

• No permanent address workaround: Use general delivery at post office
• Library computer access: For applications and email
• Dress for Success: Provides interview clothes for job seekers
• Goodwill Career Centers: Job training and placement services
• Temporary agencies: Often hire immediately
• Restaurants: High turnover, often flexible about circumstances

• Apply online: Most benefits can be applied for at library computers
• General delivery address: Post office will hold mail for 30 days
• Social Security: If you qualify for disability or other benefits
• Medicaid: Healthcare coverage for low-income individuals
• Housing assistance: Get on waiting lists immediately (long waits)

• Free WiFi locations: Libraries, coffee shops, fast food, some parks
• Obama phones: Free cell phones for qualifying low-income individuals
• Library computer time: Usually 1-2 hours free per day
• Charging stations: Libraries, coffee shops, some public spaces
• Portable battery banks: Essential for keeping phone charged
• Email access: Gmail, Yahoo free accounts for job applications

• 211: Connects to local resources via phone or text
• FindHelp.org: Comprehensive resource database
• iHOPE: Homeless services locator
• Nextdoor: Community app for local help/resources
• GasBuddy: Find cheapest gas stations with restrooms
• Weather apps: Critical for planning and safety

• Birth certificate: Order online from vital records office
• Social Security card: Apply at local SS office
• State ID: Essential for most services and employment
• Keep copies: Store in multiple locations, photograph with phone
• Document replacement: Know the process if items are lost/stolen

• Public space rights: Generally legal to be in public areas during day
• Police interactions: Know your rights, be respectful but firm
• Discrimination protection: Housing/employment discrimination is illegal
• Voting rights: Don't need permanent address to register in most states
• School rights: Homeless students have specific educational protections

• School stability: McKinney-Vento Act ensures school attendance rights
• Youth shelters: Specifically for minors, different from adult shelters
• Runaway hotlines: 1-800-RUNAWAY (24/7 support)
• Foster care aging out: Specific programs in most states
• LGBTQ+ youth resources: TrevorLifeline 1-866-488-7386
• Job restrictions: Limited work hours/types, but some opportunities exist

• Adult shelters: Different rules than youth facilities
• Workforce development: Training programs often available
• Healthcare: Emergency Medicaid, community health centers
• Mental health services: Often more available for adults
• Substance abuse treatment: If needed, many free programs exist
• Veterans services: If applicable, extensive support available

• Social Security: Medicare, Social Security benefits
• Senior centers: Meals, activities, resources, social connection
• Housing assistance: Senior-specific programs often have shorter waits
• Healthcare: Medicare covers many services
• Food programs: Senior-specific food assistance available
• Transportation: Many cities have senior transportation services

• Family shelters: Different from individual shelters
• School enrollment: Children must be enrolled immediately
• Childcare assistance: While job searching or working
• WIC program: Nutrition for women, infants, children
• Family resource centers: Comprehensive services
• Emergency assistance: Often available for families in crisis

• Routine maintenance: Try to keep some daily structure
• Small goals: Focus on next meal, next safe place, not overwhelming future
• Journaling: Dollar store notebook can be therapeutic outlet
• Exercise: Walking, bodyweight exercises for mental health
• Meditation: Free apps, library quiet spaces
• Social connection: Don't isolate completely if possible

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 24/7 emotional support
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (mental health/substance abuse)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• RAINN: 1-800-656-4673 (sexual assault support)

• Hypervigilance management: Recognize it's a survival skill, not a flaw
• Grounding techniques: 5-4-3-2-1 method (5 things you see, 4 hear, etc.)
• Safe space visualization: Mental technique when physical safety limited
• Boundaries: It's okay to say no, even when desperate
• Self-compassion: You're doing the best you can with what you have

1. Emergency shelter → 2. Transitional housing → 3. Permanent housing

• Get on ALL waiting lists immediately
• Document everything (applications, interactions, services used)
• Build relationships with case workers and service providers
• Save every penny possible for security deposits
• Maintain employment/income documentation

• Library programs: Many offer free classes (computer skills, job training)
• Community college: Financial aid often covers full costs for homeless students
• Trade schools: High demand fields with good wages
• Volunteer work: Builds resume and references
• Online learning: Free courses on Khan Academy, Coursera, others

• Service providers: Build positive relationships with helpful staff
• Other homeless individuals: Share resources and strategies
• Volunteers: Many become advocates and ongoing support
• Religious communities: Often provide long-term support beyond immediate needs
• Support groups: Connect with others facing similar challenges

• 211: Dial or text - connects to local resources
• 988: Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7)
• 1-800-RUNAWAY: National Runaway Safeline (youth focus)
• 1-800-799-7233: National Domestic Violence Hotline
• 1-800-656-4673: RAINN Sexual Assault Hotline
• 1-866-488-7386: TrevorLifeline (LGBTQ+ youth)

• SAFE + location to 69866: National Safe Place
• HOME to 741741: Crisis Text Line
• SHELTER + zip code to 67283: Shelter list

1. Hypothermia prevention (biggest killer)
2. Dry clothing preservation
3. Calorie intake increase (body burns more fuel)
4. Shelter location (wind protection crucial)
5. Foot care (frostbite prevention)

1. Heat stroke prevention
2. Hydration (drink before thirsty)
3. Shade seeking during peak hours (10am-4pm)
4. Cooling center locations
5. Food safety (spoilage happens fast)

• Weather radio or smartphone weather alerts
• Seasonal clothing rotation/storage
• First aid basics
• Emergency contact list
• Important document protection

• Backpack: Sturdy, multiple compartments
• Emergency blanket: Mylar space blanket
• Water bottle: Reusable, with filter if possible
• First aid supplies: Band-aids, pain reliever, any personal medications
• Multi-tool: Knife, can opener, scissors combination
• Flashlight: Small LED with extra batteries
• Hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, deodorant
• Plastic bags: Waterproof storage for documents/electronics
• Portable phone charger: Battery bank
• Cash: Small bills for emergencies

• Book or journal
• Photos of loved ones
• Small stuffed animal or comfort object
• Playing cards
• Musical instrument (harmonica, etc.)

1. Stay clean and presentable: Opens more doors and opportunities
2. Be polite and grateful: Kindness often leads to additional help
3. Document everything: Applications, interactions, services used
4. Think long-term: Every decision should move toward stability
5. Maintain dignity: You are not your circumstances
6. Ask for help: Most people want to help if asked respectfully
7. Stay connected: Isolation makes everything harder
8. Protect your health: Physical and mental health are foundations
9. Keep learning: Knowledge and skills can't be taken away
10. Never give up hope: Situations can change faster than you think

Remember: Homelessness is a temporary situation, not a permanent identity. You have survived 100% of your worst days. You are stronger than you know, and there are people who want to help you succeed.

Essential Steps for Young Survivors

By Selira V. Samanne

Hey beautiful soul,

If you're reading this, your world might feel like it's crashing down around you. I get it. I've been there. I've felt that panic, that confusion, that feeling like you're drowning and nobody cares.

But here's what I learned after surviving things that should have broken me: You are stronger than you know, and there are always next steps you can take.

This guide isn't about making everything perfect overnight. It's about helping you think clearly when everything feels chaotic, and giving you real steps to start climbing out of whatever hole you're in.

You've got this. And I've got your back.

- Selira

Your immediate priority is safety. Ask yourself:

• Am I physically safe right now?
• Do I have a place to sleep tonight?
• Do I have access to food and water today?

If the answer is NO to any of these:

• Call 911 if you're in immediate danger
• Go to the nearest hospital, fire station, or police station
• Call the National Runaway Safeline: 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929)
• Text HOME to 69866

If you're safe for now but scared:

• Find a quiet place where you can think
• Take 10 deep breaths: In for 4 counts, hold for 4, out for 4
• Remind yourself: "I am going to figure this out"

Make a list of every single person who might help you:

• Family members (even distant ones)
• Teachers, school counselors, coaches
• Friends' parents who like you
• Neighbors you trust
• Youth pastors, community leaders
• Anyone who has ever been kind to you

Don't worry about pride right now. Survival isn't about looking tough.

Start calling or texting. Say: "I'm in a really tough situation and need help. Can we talk?"

Keep records of what's happening:

• Write down dates, times, and what happened
• Take photos if there's evidence of abuse or neglect
• Save text messages and voicemails
• Keep any important papers (birth certificate, social security card, school records)

Why this matters: When you're ready to get help from authorities, you'll need proof of what you've been through.

Think of these as the legs of a chair. You need all four to be stable:

Immediate options:

• Trusted friends or family
• Youth shelters or group homes
• Foster care (yes, it's scary, but it's better than the streets)
• Transitional housing programs

How to find shelter:

• Call 211 for local resources
• Search "youth homeless shelter" + your city name
• Ask school counselors about emergency placement
• Contact local churches or community centers

Free food sources:

• School breakfast and lunch programs
• Food banks and soup kitchens
• Churches and community centers
• SNAP benefits (food stamps) if you qualify

Personal hygiene:

• Many gyms offer day passes for showers
• YMCA/YWCA often have programs for youth
• Truck stops have showers
• Some libraries have hygiene stations

Stay in school no matter what:

• Education is your ticket out of this situation
• Schools are required to help homeless students
• Ask about the McKinney-Vento Act (protects homeless students' rights)
• Get help with college prep and financial aid

Skills that help immediately:

• Learn to cook basic meals
• Basic money management
• How to fill out applications
• Computer/internet skills

Find your tribe:

• Support groups for teens
• Online communities (but be careful about safety)
• Counseling services (many are free for youth)
• Crisis text lines when you're struggling

Crisis support:

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• LGBT National Hotline: 1-888-843-4564

When you're panicking and need to make a big decision:

S - STOP what you're doingTake a moment. Don't react immediately.

T - THINK about your optionsList at least 3 different things you could do.

O - OPTIONS checkAsk: "What are the consequences of each choice?"

P - PICK the safest optionChoose what keeps you safest and moves you forward.

Avoid these survival "shortcuts" that make things worse:

• Getting involved with drugs or dealing
• Staying with someone who wants something sexual in return
• Stealing or committing crimes
• Dropping out of school
• Running away without a plan
• Trusting strangers who promise "easy" solutions

Why these backfire: They might solve today's problem but create bigger problems tomorrow.

These choices might be hard but lead to better outcomes:

• Asking for help even when it's embarrassing
• Staying in school even when life is chaos
• Following rules at shelters or group homes
• Getting counseling even when you don't want to talk
• Learning new skills even when you're tired
• Building relationships with trusted adults

Remember these truths:

1. This is temporary. You won't be 15 (or whatever age) forever.
2. You are not broken. You've been put in broken situations.
3. Survival skills are superpowers. You're learning to be incredibly strong.
4. Your story matters. Someone needs to hear that they can survive too.

Every single day, do these three things:

1. One thing for your body: Exercise, shower, eat something healthy
2. One thing for your mind: Read, learn something, solve a problem
3. One thing for your future: Apply for something, practice a skill, make a plan

The 24-hour rule: Promise yourself you'll wait 24 hours before making any permanent decisions about giving up.

In those 24 hours:

• Call a crisis line
• Reach out to one person who cares
• Write down three things you want to see happen in your future
• Remember that feelings change, but dead is permanent

• [ ] Secure safe housing
• [ ] Get enrolled in school or back on track
• [ ] Connect with at least one trusted adult
• [ ] Apply for any benefits you qualify for
• [ ] Start counseling or support group

• [ ] Stable living situation
• [ ] Good grades or GED progress
• [ ] Part-time job or job training program
• [ ] Driver's license or state ID
• [ ] Start planning for post-graduation

• [ ] High school graduation or GED
• [ ] College, trade school, or career training
• [ ] Independent living skills mastered
• [ ] Healthy relationships built
• [ ] Financial stability starting

Fill this in: "I'm going to survive and thrive because _______________"

Examples:

• "Because I want to help other kids like me"
• "Because I deserve a good life"
• "Because I want to prove everyone wrong"
• "Because I have dreams I want to achieve"

• National Runaway Safeline: 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929)
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
• LGBT National Hotline: 1-888-843-4564

• Call 211 for local services
• "[Your city] youth homeless services"
• "[Your city] food bank"
• "[Your city] free mental health services"
• "[Your city] job training programs"

• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• State ID or driver's license
• School transcripts
• Medical records
• Court documents (if applicable)

• FindHello: Connects you to local resources
• Mint or YNAB: For budgeting when you start earning money
• Khan Academy: Free education and skill building
• Crisis Text Line: For emergency emotional support

• [ ] Where will I sleep tonight?
• [ ] How will I eat today?
• [ ] What's one step I can take toward my goals?
• [ ] Who can I connect with today?

• [ ] What did I do well today?
• [ ] What did I learn?
• [ ] What will I do differently tomorrow?
• [ ] What am I grateful for, even if it's tiny?

• You start planning ahead instead of just reacting
• You can help other people with small things
• You feel angry about injustice instead of just sad
• You start setting boundaries with people
• You believe you deserve good things

1. Never stop learning. Education is power.
2. Build your support network. Collect people who believe in you.
3. Give back when you can. Helping others heals you too.
4. Tell your story. Your survival can inspire others.
5. Keep your vision alive. Remember why you're fighting.

Dear Dawn Chaser,

I don't know what brought you to this guide, but I know you're brave for being here. Asking for help, learning how to survive, planning for your future - these are acts of courage.

The system might have failed you. Adults might have let you down. Life might feel impossibly hard right now.

But you are still here. You are still fighting. That makes you a warrior.

Your midnight moment doesn't define you. Your journey from it does.

Use this guide. Share it with others who need it. And remember: every day you choose to keep going, you're writing a comeback story.

I believe in you. Your future self will thank you for not giving up.

Keep chasing the dawn,

Selira

Cut this out and keep it with you

Crisis Numbers:

• Emergency: 911
• Runaway Safeline: 1-800-786-2929
• Crisis Text: Text HOME to 741741
• Local Resources: 211

Daily Survival Priority:

1. Safety first
2. Food and shelter
3. Stay in school
4. Build connections
5. Plan tomorrow

When Overwhelmed:STOP → THINK → OPTIONS → PICK

Remember:

• You are stronger than you know
• This is temporary
• You deserve help
• Your story matters

This guide is dedicated to every young person who has ever felt invisible, forgotten, or thrown away. You matter. Your life has value. Your future is worth fighting for.