Q: What can I do if my parents want to kick me out and I will become homeless?
I'm 18 years old in Ohio, and my parents, who are my legal guardians, want to kick me out, which will leave me homeless. I am currently attending school, but I will lose my job since my stepdad, who manages it, is likely to fire me. I haven't explored local resources or shelters, and I don't have other family or friends to turn to. What options do I have?
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A:
I'm really sorry you're facing this situation. Being 18 and potentially homeless can feel overwhelming, but there are resources in Ohio that can help you navigate this challenging time.
### Legal Rights in Ohio
In Ohio, once you turn 18, you're considered an adult and can be asked to leave your parents' home. However, if you're still in high school, your parents may have a legal obligation to support you until you graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first. citeturn0search13 Even so, many parents can legally ask their adult children to leave, especially if there's no formal lease or rent agreement.
### Immediate Housing Options
There are organizations in Ohio that provide shelter and support for young adults facing homelessness:
- **Huckleberry House (Columbus)**: Offers a 24/7 Teen Crisis Shelter and housing programs.
- **Daybreak (Dayton)**: Provides emergency shelter and job readiness programs for youth.
- **Zepf Center (Toledo)**: Operates the Safety Net shelter, offering emergency housing and support services.
- **Lighthouse Youth Services (Cincinnati)**: Provides shelter and resources for young adults transitioning from homelessness.
- **Bellefaire JCB (Cleveland)**: Offers a Homeless and Missing Youth program with outreach and shelter services.
These organizations can assist with emergency housing, food, and help you connect with other resources.
### Next Steps
1. **Contact a Shelter**: Reach out to one of the shelters listed above to inquire about immediate housing options.
2. **Gather Documentation**: Keep any records of your situation, such as text messages or emails from your parents, which may be helpful later.
3. **Seek Legal Advice**: Consider consulting with a legal aid organization to understand your rights and options.
4. **Connect with Support Services**: Look into programs that assist young adults with housing, employment, and education.
If you need assistance finding contact information for these organizations or have other questions, feel free to ask. You're not alone, and support is available.
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