Testimony focuses on the effects of the decriminalization of status offenders and on the ability of the system to respond to the problem. Factors contributing to running away are discussed; several adolescents describe the incest, physical abuse, and parental alcoholism that led them to the streets. The association between runaways and street crime, child prostitution, and drug dealing and abuse also is considered. Several community-based programs offering services for runaway and throwaway children are described. Proposed solutions to the problem include increased legal authority over status offenders (including secure detention and court power to require youth to remain in school) and increased funding for shelters and programs offering counseling, occupational, and educational services and followup.