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Home Free Program

Home Free Program

The Home Free Program aims to reunite homeless or at-risk youth with their families or guardians or assist them in transitioning to a safe, alternative living arrangement (ALA) through the provision of a free bus ticket. This initiative collaborates with various stakeholders, including law enforcement, anti-trafficking organizations, social service agencies, and healthcare providers to support youth who are victims of labor or sex trafficking.

Deadline

  • No deadline, on-going program.

Who Can Apply

  • Youth aged 12 to 21
  • Must self-identify as homeless, a runaway, or a victim of human trafficking
  • Agreement to follow the necessary steps to obtain a ticket through the Home Free Program
  • On occasion, parents, guardians, or designated adult family members may also receive a round-trip ticket to travel to the youth’s location to accompany them home

Program Benefits

  • Safe Travel: A free bus ticket to reunite with family or transition to a safe living arrangement.
  • Support Services: Access to necessary services and resources for a smooth transition.
  • Safety and Stability: Assistance in finding a secure and stable living environment.

Program Information

Phone: 1-800-786-2929

Hours

  • Available 24/7: The hotline is open around the clock for assistance.

How Does It Work

1

Initiate Contact

Youth must call the NRS hotline at 1-800-786-2929 to speak with the NRS Crisis Services team about their situation. They will be screened for signs of human trafficking.
2

Find a Safe Place

NRS can help the youth find a local safe place, such as a police station, shelter, or hospital emergency room if needed.
3

Application Process

Once the youth is in a safe location, the Home Free application process can begin.
4

Guardian Escort Tickets

Available for youth aged 12 to 17 who need an adult to accompany them.
5

Child Tickets

Provided for parenting youth traveling with children over the age of 2 or those needing a car seat.
6

Coordination and Verification

NRS will communicate with adults and professionals involved in the youth’s situation to confirm that safe and stable housing and critical support services are available at the destination. This may include conference calls with the ALA and verification of all parties' identities.
7

Documentation

NRS may require documentation such as I.D.s or birth certificates to verify the identities of everyone involved. For youth under 18, a runaway report may be requested if filed.
8

Follow-Up Support

Participants must continue to use supportive services or resources identified by NRS for follow-up support in their new location.
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