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If you’ve decided that running away from home is necessary for your safety or happiness, pack a bag with only the bare essentials, like food, money, a coat or jacket, and toiletries so you can maintain good hygiene as you establish yourself in a new place. You should also consider bringing a utility knife, a combination lock, and an umbrella, which will help keep you dry if you can’t find shelter right away. To make finding shelter easier, try to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or another adult for help and support. Before you run, make sure to bring enough money to pay for a bus or other transportation that will get you away from your neighborhood, and then an extra $50 or so just in case. Once you have your things packed, make your getaway quickly and try doing it as soon as everyone in your house leaves and you know they won’t be back for a few hours. No matter what your plan is, consider calling 1-800-RUN-AWAY or going to www.1800runaway.org for support that is confidential and non-judgemental. For more help, including how to find shelter if you don’t have a place to stay, scroll down.