Runaway and Homeless Youth Act
About the Act
The Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) provides the foundation for American communities’ responses to youth and young adult homelessness by authorizing RHYA programs, including the Street Outreach Program (SOP), Basic Center Program (BCP), and Transitional Living Program (TLP). These programs, administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, prevent and respond to youth exploitation through human trafficking, and provide services - including education, employment, financial literacy, and family reconnection - to runaway, homeless, and disconnected youth.
The RHYA includes specific requirements related to supporting secondary education completion and the transition to postsecondary education for young people served in RHYA programs.
Legislation
Regulations and Guidance
- Download the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Runaway and Homeless Youth: Final Rule (December 2016)
- Download the HHS Runaway and Homeless Youth: Final Rule - With References to Education and Related Services Highlighted (Compiled by the National Center for Homeless Education [NCHE], December 2016)
- Download the HHS Runaway and Homeless Youth Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) | Preguntas Frecuentes Sobre el Programa para Jóvenes en Fuga y Sin Hogar
- Download the HHS Information Memorandum ACF-ACYF-FYSB-IM-2301 on Supporting LGBTQIA2S+ Youth and Young Adults (November 2023)
- Download the HHS Information Memorandum ACF-ACYF-FYSB-IM24-01 on Leading in Partnership with Youth and Young Adults with Lived Experience (February 2024)
- Download the HHS Runaway and Homeless Youth Program Frequently Asked Questions (April 2024)