You have a good heart.

I would empower your friend by asking him to contact [himself] such and such organization or people. And empower him to make his own decision and take the initiative by asking him questions like:

"Have you tried [this and that]?"
"How do you feel about using the route of [xyz]?"

You are there to assist, guide, and give him referrals, but not to do the work, or make the decision for him.

You are right, he needs to take the first step. I feel he is way too dependent on you right now.