A PROGRAM OF TRAVELERS AID INTERNATIONAL
HISTORY
Originally founded as the Travelers Aid Society of Washington, D.C., Inc. in 1913 at Union Station, the Washington Travelers Aid programs are now administered by Travelers Aid International. Travelers Aid operates from four locations in the D.C. metropolitan area. The Social Services office is on Capitol ilill and Travelers Aid booths are located in Union Station, Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport.
MISSION
Travelers Aid's mission is to provide professional services to persons who encounter problems beyond their control related to separation from horne, family, or other support systems.
SERVICES OFFERED
Travelers Aid serves people whose problems result from being stranded in transit. Agency clients include travelers in need of social service help as well as experienced travelers who encounter unforeseen difficulties. Travelers Aid is part of a network of social service agencies throughout the United States.
COMMUNICATION, COUNSELING AND
REFERRALS
Information, direction and referral services to local resources
Long distance phone call and communication services for those with no other resources.
Assistance with confirmation of family crisis.
Protective travel services for persons who must travel and are unble to do so without assistance, such as the inexperienced (youthful), disconnected, or other persons with travel challenges. (This service does not extend beyond the confines of the transportation terminal.
Assistance with obtaining and utilizing out-of-town personal resources.
INFORMATION AND DIRECTION SERVICES
Information and Direction services are provided by a dedicated cadre of volunteers at Washington National , Dulles International Airport, as well as Union Station. The booths are open throughout the year, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Social service assistance is offered by a Travelers Aid social worker. With advance notice, they also can arrange for protective travel assistance.
HOMEWARD BOUND PROGRAM
This program provides help to travelers in Crisis. Agency social work staff are available for telephone consultation via Travelers Aid booths.
The Homeward Bound program prevents individuals and families from becoming stranded and homeless in the greater Washington, D.C. area. Services include arranging for temporary food and shelter, relinkage to family supports and referrals to community resources.