Greyhound bus, partnered with the National Runaway Safeline, is offering free rides home to runaways between the ages of 12 and 21.
It is a part of their Home Free program that provides around 400 kids and teenagers every year with a safe ride home, according to Greyhound. | Find a Greyhound stop near you. The program requires that the child calls the NRS helpline -- 1-800-RUNAWAY or 1-800-786-2929 -- and be willing to be reunited with their family. The child must also be listed on a runaway report to be eligible for a Greyhound ticket home.
Greyhound noted on their website that the Home Free program can only be used on two occasions by the same person.
A parent or legal guardian can also receive a free ticket if the runaway is under 15 years of age.
National Runaway Safeline provided many statistics on reasons for runaway such as abuse; but their focus is creating a safe space for children to find support. They have also included information for youths who are struggling because of COVID-19.