As loved ones gather together to celebrate the holidays, many families will be without their children. Some who have run away, been exploited, or who are missing for other reasons may not have the means or the ability to get back to their loved ones on their own.
In partnership with the National Runaway Safeline (NRS), the Greyhound bus line company helps children and young adults, ages 12 to 21, find their way back home. Through their “Home Free” program, runaways and missing and exploited youth can get a free bus ticket to reunite with their parents or guardians or relocate to another stable, safe place this holiday season.
The two organizations have partnered together since 1995 to assist homeless and at-risk youth get off the street and find a safe place to live. They have helped an average of 400 children and teens every year since then. The program is available to youths anywhere in the United States.
The National Center of Missing and Exploited Children reported over 27,000 endangered runaways in 2020. Children who run away may be suffering from emotional issues, physical abuse, or other problems at home that they are trying to escape. Living on the streets places them at risk for homelessness, gang involvement, and sex trafficking.
In 2020, Greyhound and the NRS provided free bus tickets home for 325 children and young adults. In 2021, so far, 230 free bus tickets have been given to runaway and missing youth, a value of $42,000.
“The Home Free partnership between Greyhound and NRS continues to have a positive impact in providing a vital resource in helping address and resolve the growing number of homeless and exploited young people,” said Susan Frankel, Chief Executive Officer, National Runaway Safeline. “We are honored to be able to continue our partnership with Greyhound Lines and look forward to serving as their charitable partner for the Home Free program for many more years.”
If you or someone you know has run away or is homeless and needs help to return home, call toll-free 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929) or visit 1800RUNAWAY.org.
