Travelers Aid of Greater Birmingham (TAGB): A Century of Service
For over 100 years, Travelers Aid of Greater Birmingham (TAGB) has been a vital resource for individuals who find themselves displaced or disconnected while traveling. The origins of the Travelers Aid movement in America date back over 150 years to the westward expansion, when the mayor of St. Louis began assisting stranded travelers with essential supplies. Since then, a nationwide network of Travelers Aid programs has developed, offering support to tens of thousands of people each year.
TAGB’s journey began in 1907 as a partnership between the YWCA and the Birmingham Terminal Company, initially focused on protecting young women arriving in the city. Recognizing a broader need, the program quickly expanded to assist any traveler in distress, ultimately becoming an independent organization. Today, TAGB remains committed to its mission as a partner agency of the United Way of Central Alabama and a member of Travelers Aid International.
Our services are designed to meet the specific needs of displaced individuals, offering information and direction, travel planning, brief case management, situational counseling, and, when necessary, financial assistance for travel. Additionally, our Senior Ride Program provides free transportation to and from medical and healthcare-related appointments for low-income elderly individuals and adults with disabilities. This program is supported by a combination of local and federal funds, including Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities funds, The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, the Beeson Trust of Canterbury United Methodist Church, and the United Way of Central Alabama.
As TAGB embarks on its second century of service, we remain dedicated to connecting people to home, family, jobs, and healthcare, continuing to offer a helping hand to those in need.