Human Trafficking Training and Victim Services Development Program

The Nampa Family Justice Center (NFJC) proposes to increase identification and appropriate referral for trafficking victims in Idaho, specifically those in Canyon, Ada, Adams, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, and Washington counties. Idaho is leading the nation in population growth–placing significant pressure on law enforcement, first responders, and other systems. This pressure has created gaps in identifying and serving vulnerable populations. Idaho has very little data related to human trafficking because victims are going undetected and falling through cracks. This project proposes to address these systemic gaps by coordinating recurring systemic and community training in identification, trauma-informed care, and appropriate referral. NFJC will provide 130 community trainings, reaching approximately 1,925 individuals, will be provided to first responders, patrol and investigation officers, mental health counselors, substance use treatment providers, court and prosecution personnel, victim advocates, civil attorneys, and community groups. Topics will also include effective and evidence-based victim service models, treatments, investigations, and community and victim needs. Through coordinated and collaborative partnership efforts, this project will develop a resource guide for systems for victim identification and assessment, trauma-informed care, and referral. 

Additionally, NFJC will provide direct victim services for emergency housing, transportation, food, mental health counseling, substance use treatment, and legal aid services. These services will help improve recovery and remove barriers. NFJC is partnered with experienced trauma-informed care and human trafficking provider Community Outreach Behavioral Services (COBS) for training and victim services. COBS has been providing trauma-informed care services for victims of human trafficking since 2015 and also recognizes the need for awareness, training, education, and victim services. The project will primarily benefit victims of human trafficking by providing direct services and increasing systemic training to aid in identification and appropriate care–minimizing potential revictimization and traumatization. The effectiveness of training and benefits of program services will be seen through an increase in prosecution and arrests related to human trafficking as well as increases in victims accessing services.