The new partnership expands crisis response and recovery services across Dallas and Tarrant County
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.
Douglas W. Denton, founder and executive director of Homeward Bound Photo courtesy of Homeward Bound
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.”
Denton emphasized that QuikTrip’s investment reflects confidence in Homeward Bound’s leadership. “They recognized our experience in addressing the behavioral health challenges that affect communities across Dallas and North Texas,” he said, “and are helping us amplify our efforts.”
Building A Stronger Continuum Of Care
Homeward Bound operates across 19 counties in North Texas and six in far West Texas. Its network collaborates with courts, hospitals, shelters and law enforcement to divert people from incarceration to treatment. Services are accessible regardless of income or insurance, with Medicaid, private insurance and sliding-scale support available for uninsured clients.
The nonprofit’s long-term mission is to reduce repeat crises, promote recovery and create lasting stability for individuals and families. “This partnership allows us to expand programs that truly change lives,” Denton said.
To learn more about Homeward Bound’s services and outreach, visit homewardboundinc.org.
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