#United States #Minneapolis #Human Trafficking #Nonprofits #OUR RESCUE

Our Rescue's Commitment to Combat Trafficking and Support Survivors

In a significant move to tackle the pressing issues of sex trafficking and child exploitation, Our Rescue, a dedicated non-governmental organization, has announced $260,000 in grants distributed across ten nonprofit organizations in various U.S. states. This initiative is part of their broader educational campaign, "Join the Fight," coinciding with January's National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Strengthening Support for Nonprofits

The grants are aimed at empowering local nonprofits that play a crucial role in preventing human trafficking and aiding survivors in their recovery. With sex trafficking ranking among the fastest-growing crimes against humanity, generating an alarming $173 billion in illegal profits yearly, the need for effective intervention is more vital than ever. In 2023 alone, over 100 million instances of suspected child sexual abuse material were reported, highlighting the critical nature of ongoing support for both victims and organizations working to combat these heinous acts.

Tammy Lee, CEO of Our Rescue, expressed the organization's commitment to making a difference in this fight: "We are honored to support the critical work of nonprofits that are making a tangible impact in the fight against sex trafficking and child exploitation. These organizations' meaningful contributions foster hope, healing, and resilience as survivors rebuild their lives and reclaim their futures."

Spotlight on Nonprofits Benefiting from Grants

1. Minnesota: Minneapolis and St. Cloud
- Minnesota Indian Women's Resource Center (MIWRC) has received a generous grant of $50,000 to support its Noojimo program, a culturally informed initiative focused on assisting Native American women who have experienced violence.
- Terebinth Refuge in St. Cloud has been awarded $10,000 to enhance its holistic healing program, which promises a safe space and comprehensive trauma-informed services for women overcoming sexual exploitation.

2. Texas: Waco, Denton, and Houston
- Unbound Now in Waco, dedicated to providing round-the-clock advocacy for youth at risk of commercial sexual exploitation, has received $50,000. This funding will bolster their crisis response and ongoing support services.
- Ranch Hands Rescue in Denton, where a safe house specifically for young adult male survivors operates, has been granted $40,000 to cover operational costs and enhance their complex healing approaches.
- Crime Stoppers of Houston will utilize a $10,000 grant to extend awareness and prevention programs concerning human trafficking in the Houston area.

3. South Dakota: Sioux Falls
- Call to Freedom has been awarded $35,000 to continue providing trauma-informed services to survivors, which includes safe housing and crucial case management while focusing on community outreach and prevention education.

4. Utah: Sandy
- Journey of Hope has secured $20,000 for operational support, assisting exploited individuals in their journey towards healing through comprehensive services, including vocational training and mental health support.

5. Pennsylvania: Bethlehem
- Bloom for Women will receive $20,000 to improve their workforce development services for survivors, emphasizing safe housing, trauma-informed care, and community engagement in education and prevention efforts.

6. North Dakota: Sentinel Butte and Bismark
- Home on the Range has been provided with $15,000 to enhance programming tailored for youth survivors, focusing on evidence-based therapies and mentorship. 318 Project in Bismark has also been awarded $10,000 to expand its outreach and education programs about human trafficking.

A Collective Call to Action

The grants are fundamental to Our Rescue's initiative during January, which is recognized as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. The organization encourages everyone to join their fight against this pressing issue, reinforcing that it requires collective efforts from various sectors and the general public.

"No single entity can end human trafficking, so we are calling on everyone to join this fight and be a light for survivors," remarked CEO Tammy Lee. The organization advocates for signing the Join the Fight pledge, watching their documentary, "When Survivors Speak: The Light in the Darkness of Human Trafficking," and becoming active advocates of change.

About Our Rescue

Founded in 2013, Our Rescue operates across the U.S. and in 27 other countries with a mission focused on eradicating sex trafficking and child exploitation. Their efforts encompass education to prevent human trafficking, supporting law enforcement in rescues, and providing trauma-informed care for survivors. As they continue to drive impactful initiatives, Our Rescue remains dedicated to fostering a safer world for all individuals, especially the most vulnerable among us.