Bridging the Gap
Introducing Short-Term Housing for Survivors of Trafficking

Short-term programs that include emergency housing for survivors are a pressing need within the anti-trafficking sphere. At present there are only 67 agencies nationwide offering an emergency shelter program as opposed to 191 agencies that offer long-term restorative care.* The largest shelter of its kind can accommodate 16 beds within two emergency housing locations combined. Most houses typically have between 3 and 6 beds, indicating a great need in the U.S. for trafficking survivors seeking immediate safety and shelter.

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Through research and experience in the field, we’ve also learned that many victims don’t recognize the exploitative nature of their circumstances. Constantly in survival mode, initially, many of them might seek assistance for the immediate, visible effects of their situation—homelessness, addiction, the need for food relief, or other. The full understanding of their situation and its effects often comes to light only when they are in a safe and supportive environment.