There is an increasing body of literature about runaway and homeless youth, but few studies have investigated what happens to the youth after they use Runaway and Homeless Youth Centers (RHYCs). This study examines the services available and the impact these services have on the youth. Data are analyzed from a survey mailed to all RHYCs operated by federally funded grantees and their subsites. The response rate for the mail survey was 79 percent (269 RHYCs). Four in-depth site visits were made to RHYCs in rural, mid-size urban, and heavily populated urban areas (Cincinnati, Ohio; Cullowhee, North Carolina; San Fransisco, California; and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma). Each RHYC offers shelter. Other services usually offered include counseling, recreation, transportation, and advocacy, but a variety of services are available in different locations. On the average, 40 percent of youth served each night were runaways, while 18 percent including those awaiting foster care were considered homeless. Data from the youth served result from telephone interviews (approximately 121) examining the impact of RHYC services. At the time of the interviews, 105 of the youth reported that their lives were better than when they entered the RHYC, but a few found their lives more stressful and difficult. For some youth, the RHYC served as a timely safety valve. The youth's stay in an RHYC is generally brief, and it is not possible to describe its impact fully. It appears that many youth do not take advantage of follow-up services offered. RHYCs appear to help a majority of their clients, but much remains to be done to promote stable living situations. Statistical data are provided in 27 tables and 27 exhibits. Nineteen references are listed. (SLD)