City launches program to buy bus tickets for the homeless

The City of Lawton has begun its program to help homeless people return home.

The program is one of several the City Council is exploring as it begins initiatives designed to lessen problems being caused by some members of the homeless community. Earlier this year, council members directed City Manager John Ratliff to identify funding to cover the cost of buying bus tickets for homeless people, helping those people return to specific cities if they wanted. The discussion was linked to an ordinance that now makes it illegal to camp in public places such as city parks and on sidewalks, and city officials are exploring options for such people.

Funding for the initiative is coming from the city manager’s Contingency Fund, a funding category approved during the budget process that is designed to support efforts “addressing emergency community needs,” Ratliff said. As of last week, the city had purchased bus tickets for two individuals.

The program is designed for individuals who are experiencing homelessness, meaning they do not have a place of residence. Ratliff said referrals can be made through local homeless shelters, Lawton Police Department, or by members of the city’s homeless committees who work with close in need. Guidelines allow participants to select any destination within the contiguous United States.

City officials have said some people are homeless because they have no local housing options, and no way to get to other cities where they may have family and friends who can help. Ratliff said the program is a way to help those people.

“We believe in finding compassionate and practical ways to help those experiencing homelessness,” he said. “Offering bus tickets is one way we can support individuals in reconnecting with family, friends, or support networks in other communities, giving them a chance to start fresh. Homelessness is a complex issue, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

“This program is just one part of a bigger effort to address the challenges we face here in Lawton, and we’re committed to using every tool we can to make a meaningful impact.”

Earlier this year, city officials began working with the Lawton Salvation Army to provide an option for overnight sleeping accommodations for people who are picked up by Lawton police for camping in a public place, but don’t have another option because indoor shelters don’t have available beds. Salvation Army is providing space at its south Lawton campus for outdoor camping, city officials said.