Homeward Bound Inc., a Dallas-based nonprofit serving North Texas and far West Texas, secured a three-year, $5.9 million partnership with QuikTrip to expand crisis response, treatment and long-term recovery services throughout Dallas and eastern Tarrant County.
Founded in 1980, Homeward Bound has supported more than 250,000 individuals facing homelessness, substance use disorders and mental health emergencies. The new funding strengthens its ability to reach people in need, especially those underserved by traditional systems, before a crisis escalates.
Help That Meets People Where They Are
Douglas W. Denton, founder and executive director of Homeward Bound, said the partnership enables a proactive approach. “For more than 40 years, clients have come to us, so desperate for treatment that they line up before dawn,” Denton said in an official statement. “Now we’re able to go to them.”
With QuikTrip’s support, five Rapid Responder teams now travel daily across Dallas and eastern Tarrant County. These mental health specialists connect with individuals, often unhoused or panhandling, who face untreated behavioral health challenges. Since launching in August 2024, the teams have recorded 2,700 encounters, delivered 6,400 services, diverted 600 emergency calls and helped more than 200 individuals access treatment.
Why QuikTrip Stepped In
James Lollis, QuikTrip’s Dallas community affairs coordinator, said the company recognized Homeward Bound’s longstanding impact. “Homeward Bound has a proven track record of helping people overcome significant challenges and rebuild their lives,” Lollis said. “We’re proud to support their work and partner with an organization that shares our commitment to improving health, safety and opportunity.”…