Peace Bridge to glow green for Runaway Prevention Month

Brent Jones
October 30, 2025 at 8:10 PM

The Peace Bridge will be illuminated green on Monday as part of a national campaign drawing attention to the issue of runaway and at-risk youth, according to a release received by Fort Erie Radio on Thursday from the Missing Children Society of Canada (MCSC).

The green lighting marks National Runaway Prevention Month, an initiative aimed at promoting awareness, prevention, and community support for young people who may be vulnerable to leaving home.

According to MCSC, police records show that of the 32,680 children reported missing in Canada last year, 23,219 were considered runaways. The majority were between 14 and 17 years old, and more than half were female.

“You are not alone in thinking the numbers of runaway youth is alarming,” said Amanda Pick, CEO of the Missing Children Society of Canada, in the release. “By recognizing early warning signs and helping young people feel seen, heard and valued, we can help create safe spaces for troubled youth.”

The organization cited family conflict, poverty, mental health challenges and lack of support as among the main reasons youth run away. MCSC warns that the longer a young person is missing from a safe environment, the greater their risk of exploitation, substance misuse or harm.

Throughout November, landmarks across the country will be lit green to raise awareness.

“We should never forget that every runaway is a missing, vulnerable child,” Pick added. “Each one deserves a chance to live in a safe environment and to grow up free from harm.”

The Missing Children Society of Canada was founded in 1986 and continues to work with police and communities to locate missing youth and bring them home safely.

More information about the campaign is available at mcsc.ca.