Economic Empowerment for WA Human Trafficking Survivors

Through this award, Empower Her Network (EHN) will expand the capacity of its existing, gender-inclusive employment, education, and economic empowerment program that addresses gaps in the restoration and reentry process for labor and/or sex trafficking survivors in achieving self-sufficiency, increased safety, and improved well-being. The project will serve victims of labor and/or sex trafficking who are over 18 years old in the state of Washington, primarily in the cities of Vancouver, Seattle, South Bend, Spokane, Tacoma, and Olympia. Informed by lived experience experts and implemented by a diverse and inclusive staff, project activities will include expanding referral partnerships and utilizing a survivor-centered approach to assess education and employment obstacles and opportunities and engage in a collaborative planning process to develop individualized “Empowerment Plans” spanning 12-18 months. During the program, EHN will fund tangible needs such as the delta between aid and tuition, covering vocational opportunities without aid, temporary childcare and transportation fees as an economic empowerment tool, and employment costs. In addition, participants will receive case management surrounding career readiness and exploration, navigating financial aid/public benefits, any necessary interventions with employers, creditors, and institutions, and building life skills. EHN advocates will also refer survivors to partner organizations for any needs and services outside of EHN’s program.