We encourage the children and young adults who enter our contests to write about what matters to them. This sometimes means exploring sensitive or difficult topics, especially in our high school contests.
We believe that poetry should be a place for people to express their thoughts and feelings without censorship, and as long as the subject is handled sensitively and appropriately, we will publish work containing such themes.
If you feel you have been affected by any of the issues highlighted within our publications, below is a list of helplines and websites where you can find support and information.
A free hotline available 24/7 to kids, teens and young adults, providing free and confidential support on any issue.
www.yourlifeyourvoice.org
Phone: 1-800-448-3000
Text VOICE to 20121 (open 12 noon to 12 midnight CST)
Provides free, 24/7 confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis for you and loved ones.
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Phone: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
A free, 24/7 support line for those in crisis. Text from anywhere in the US to talk to a trained crisis counselor.
www.crisistextline.org
Text HOME to 741741
A national 24/7 toll-free confidential hotline for LGBTQ youth. www.thetrevorproject.org
Phone: 1-866-488-7386
Text START to 678678
Dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
Toll-free, confidential helpline open Mon-Thurs 9am-9pm, Fri 9am-5pm (EST) www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
Phone: 1-800-931-2237
Highly-trained advocates are available 24/7/365 to talk confidentially with anyone experiencing domestic violence, seeking resources or information, or questioning unhealthy aspects of their relationship.
www.thehotline.org
Phone: 1-800-799-7233
Offering support to anyone thinking of running away, or anyone who has, and to offer support to their families. Anonymous, confidential and free.
www.1800runaway.org
Phone: 1-800-RUNAWAY or 1-800-786-2929
Provides emotional support to anyone in distress or at risk of suicide. You can call the branch in your area, details can be found at: www.samaritansusa.org/contact