Runaway & Homeless Youth Program (RHYP)

Providing youth with a stabilized living environment in Isabella and Claire counties.

12 - 17 Years

The Runaway & Homeless Youth Program, or RHYP, is designed to serve youth ages 12 – 17 years old.

Stable Environment

The focus of the Runaway & Homeless Youth Program is to provide youth with a stabilized living environment.

Available 24/7

On-call staff are available 24 hours every day to respond to crisis and emergencies. Staff will meet youth at their desired location.

If you or someone you know is between the ages of 12 and 17 and is at risk of homelessness, has run away, or is considering leaving home, the Runaway & Homeless Youth Program (RHYP) is here to help. We serve youth in Isabella and Clare Counties, providing a safe, stable environment with the support needed to navigate tough times and build a brighter future.

We offer a range of services to help youth overcome challenges:

Emergency shelter and assistance with finding safe housing
Food, clothing, and survival kits to ensure basic needs are met
Referrals for counseling, medical care, and mental health services
Family reunification support for those wanting to reconnect
Transportation assistance to help youth get where they need to go
Resources for finding a job and building independent living skills

RHYP is committed to helping youth find stability and independence. Our approach is all about meeting youth where they’re at, creating personalized plans that align with their goals, and giving them the tools to succeed. We also provide a listening ear for anyone who just needs someone to talk to, and our services are free to all who are willing to participate and make positive changes.

What to expect when reaching out to RHYP:

We listen—no matter the situation, we’re here to hear your story.
Respect and dignity are central to everything we do.
Youth safety is always our priority.
Confidentiality is a guarantee—what you share stays with us.
We’ll collaborate with youth, families, and community partners to create a personalized action plan focused on the youth’s goals and needs.

Youth, parents, and community organizations can reach out to us directly or make referrals. Our regular office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but we also offer evening appointments to accommodate school and work schedules. In emergencies, our 24/7 on-call staff are ready to assist. We can even meet youth at community locations for added convenience and safety.

For immediate assistance or to make a referral, please call our 24-Hour Crisis Line:

Isabella County: (989) 772-2918
Clare County: (989) 386-2774

We’re here to support you, your family, and your community. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re ready to help!

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