The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently launched a new program called “Project Homecoming,” aimed at encouraging illegal immigrants to voluntarily return to their home countries. The first charter flight took off on Monday from Houston, Texas, carrying 64 individuals who chose to self-deport to Honduras and Colombia.
A Voluntary Return Program with Support
This initiative is designed to make it easier for people living in the U.S. without legal permission to leave on their own terms. Participants who sign up through the CBP Home App receive assistance that includes a free flight, a $1,000 stipend to help with travel expenses, and the opportunity to possibly come back to the U.S. legally in the future.
The DHS shared a video showing families preparing for the journey, where they were welcomed with food, games, and even stuffed animals for the children — efforts to make the process more humane and supportive.
How “Project Homecoming” Came to Be
Earlier this month, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order launching this self-deportation program. The goal, he said, is to reduce the financial burden on American taxpayers. Currently, deporting a single individual through detention and legal processes can cost the government over $17,000. By providing a $1,000 incentive and a free flight, DHS estimates saving billions of dollars.
Trump described the program as a simple and cost-effective way to encourage voluntary departures. “We are making it as easy as possible for illegal aliens to leave America,” he said. “Any illegal alien can simply show up at an airport and receive a free flight out of our country.”
How to Participate
Illegal immigrants interested in self-deportation are encouraged to use the CBP Home App to schedule their departure and receive the financial support offered. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized the importance of the program, warning that those who do not self-deport may face fines, arrest, and removal without the chance to return legally.
“If you are here illegally, use the CBP Home App to take control of your departure and receive financial support to return home,” Noem said on social media. “If you don’t, you will be subjected to fines, arrest, deportation, and will never be allowed to return.”
Looking Ahead
The first flight is just the beginning of what DHS hopes will be a larger effort to manage immigration more efficiently and humanely. By providing a dignified option for voluntary return, the government aims to help individuals avoid the trauma of forced removal and reduce the overall costs associated with immigration enforcement.
For those living in the U.S. without legal status, “Project Homecoming” offers a chance to leave on their own terms, with support to start fresh back home — and potentially the opportunity to return legally one day.
“This article was written by Mathew Owen. AI tools were used lightly for grammar and formatting, but the ideas, words, and edits are all mine.”