About Homeward Bound:

 

The Homeward Bound program is a compassionate initiative aimed at reuniting individuals experiencing homelessness with supportive family or friends who can provide stable housing and emotional support. The goal is to offer a sustainable path out of homelessness by:

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• Identifying willing and able family/friend connections through outreach and case management.

• Assessing the viability and safety of reunification.

• Providing travel assistance, such as bus, train, or plane tickets.

• Offering pre-travel support, such as temporary shelter, food, clothing, and help obtaining IDs.

• Coordinating with the receiving party to ensure ongoing support and follow-up.
   

This approach recognizes that homelessness is often not just about lack of housing, but also about the breakdown of personal support networks. By restoring those connections, Homeward Bound seeks to create a more humane, cost-effective, and lasting solution for individuals ready to reconnect and rebuild their lives.

The Homeward Bound program requires participants to fulfill the following criteria:​

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• Must be experiencing homelessness and currently living in the state where you are applying.

• Must be medically stable enough to safely travel to your final destination.

• Must have no outstanding warrants or unresolved legal issues.

• Must have a confirmed place to reside at the destination, with adequate support available. Staff will contact the family or friend at the destination to verify these arrangements.

• Must be sober and able to abstain from alcohol and other substances during travel.

• Clients who meet these requirements will be provided with a bus ticket home.

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Traveling with a Service Animal: 

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Pets are not allowed during travel. However, an exception may be made for certified service animals when traveling by Greyhound or air travel only. Proper documentation and certification may be required.

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Here are several ways you may apply for Homeward Bound:

• Apply Online: 

• PDF Application: ​

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To speak with a staff member in Homeward Bound, please click here.