New Network Launched to Aid Trafficking Survivors Seeking Justice and Legal Support
On September 8, 2025, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) announced the launch of its new initiative, the Backpage Survivor Remission Network. This innovative platform aims to assist survivors of human trafficking connected to Backpage.com and CityXGuide.com in navigating the complex process of securing legal aid and compensation. The initiative responds to a recent decision by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to distribute approximately $200 million in funds seized from these websites, slated for victims of trafficking.
Established in 1984, NCMEC has grown into the nation's leading nonprofit organization focused on child protection. For over four decades, it has served as a critical resource in the fight against child abduction and sexual exploitation. The launch of this network marks a significant expansion of their efforts to provide targeted support for trafficking survivors, ensuring they are informed and equipped to claim their rightful compensation.
Survivors interested in applying for compensation must submit an application to the DOJ’s remediation program before the deadline of February 2, 2026. Recognizing that potential applicants may feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the submission process, NCMEC has partnered with law firms across the country that have committed to offering pro bono legal assistance. These attorneys will aid survivors in completing and submitting their applications accurately and on time.
Here’s how the application process will work:
1. The Backpage Survivor Remission Network will provide detailed information about the remediation program.
2. Survivors can fill out a simple form to inform NCMEC of their need for assistance.
3. Subsequently, NCMEC will connect survivors with a dedicated attorney who will guide them through each step of the application process at no cost.
Currently, 15 law firms have signed on to participate, with expectations of more joining the effort. Given the anticipated volume of requests for assistance, NCMEC will match survivors with lawyers based on various factors, including the services offered, language requirements, and geographic location.
To ensure these legal professionals can provide sensitive, trauma-informed support, NCMEC will offer training and resources specifically designed for this purpose. The lawyer network will be instrumental in guiding survivors through specific requests that align with the remediation program, leveraging the donations received by NCMEC to enhance their services.
For survivors, it’s crucial to know that they are not alone in this journey. NCMEC is committed to standing alongside them, ensuring they receive necessary support to navigate the application process and seek justice.
While the opportunity to apply for compensation is a vital step towards justice, it is time-sensitive. Survivors must submit their claims by the specified deadline of February 2, 2026. NCMEC aims to guarantee that every individual in need of support has access to the resources available through the network.
Prominent law firms participating in this initiative include:
More resources can be accessed for those who suspect child sexual exploitation by visiting report.cybertip.org for reporting needs. Additionally, if individuals wish to remove indecent images taken before they turned 18, they can seek help at takeitdown.ncmec.org.
NCMEC encourages all individuals who have been affected by trafficking or exploitation to reach out for assistance. The network aims to empower survivors, providing the tools, guidance, and support necessary for recovery and justice.
Established in 1984, NCMEC has grown into the nation's leading nonprofit organization focused on child protection. For over four decades, it has served as a critical resource in the fight against child abduction and sexual exploitation. The launch of this network marks a significant expansion of their efforts to provide targeted support for trafficking survivors, ensuring they are informed and equipped to claim their rightful compensation.
Survivors interested in applying for compensation must submit an application to the DOJ’s remediation program before the deadline of February 2, 2026. Recognizing that potential applicants may feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the submission process, NCMEC has partnered with law firms across the country that have committed to offering pro bono legal assistance. These attorneys will aid survivors in completing and submitting their applications accurately and on time.
Here’s how the application process will work:
1. The Backpage Survivor Remission Network will provide detailed information about the remediation program.
2. Survivors can fill out a simple form to inform NCMEC of their need for assistance.
3. Subsequently, NCMEC will connect survivors with a dedicated attorney who will guide them through each step of the application process at no cost.
Currently, 15 law firms have signed on to participate, with expectations of more joining the effort. Given the anticipated volume of requests for assistance, NCMEC will match survivors with lawyers based on various factors, including the services offered, language requirements, and geographic location.
To ensure these legal professionals can provide sensitive, trauma-informed support, NCMEC will offer training and resources specifically designed for this purpose. The lawyer network will be instrumental in guiding survivors through specific requests that align with the remediation program, leveraging the donations received by NCMEC to enhance their services.
For survivors, it’s crucial to know that they are not alone in this journey. NCMEC is committed to standing alongside them, ensuring they receive necessary support to navigate the application process and seek justice.
While the opportunity to apply for compensation is a vital step towards justice, it is time-sensitive. Survivors must submit their claims by the specified deadline of February 2, 2026. NCMEC aims to guarantee that every individual in need of support has access to the resources available through the network.
Prominent law firms participating in this initiative include:
- - Baker Hostetler
- - Ballard Spahr
- - Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner
- - Husch Blackwell
- - Kirkland & Ellis
- - Jenner & Block
- - Milbank
- - Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe
- - Rainfall Strategies LLC
- - Schroeter Goldmark Bender
- - Vinson & Elkins
- - Wiley
More resources can be accessed for those who suspect child sexual exploitation by visiting report.cybertip.org for reporting needs. Additionally, if individuals wish to remove indecent images taken before they turned 18, they can seek help at takeitdown.ncmec.org.
NCMEC encourages all individuals who have been affected by trafficking or exploitation to reach out for assistance. The network aims to empower survivors, providing the tools, guidance, and support necessary for recovery and justice.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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