Transitional Living Program for Youth Victims of Human Trafficking

The goal of the FY 2020 Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Human Trafficking Program is to support housing assistance for victims of all forms of human trafficking throughout the United States, as defined by the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000, as amended. Funding through this solicitation supports programs that provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing with support services to victims of human trafficking who are in need of housing as a result of human trafficking. Funding will be provided over a three-year project period. The Harbour’s Transitional Living Program (TLP) for Youth Victims of Human Trafficking will serve runaway and homeless female and transgender youth ages 16 to 22 within the North/Northwest Suburbs of Cook County, Illinois. The Harbour’s TLP for Youth Victims of Human Trafficking would provide up to 24 months of transitional living via one 4-bed group home, as well as approximately 2 beds in scattered site apartments at any given time. With 6 total beds allocated for human trafficking survivors, we anticipate serving approximately 5 youth in the first year, and 7 youth in each of the two following years. Through a Housing First, low-barrier approach offering both transitional housing as well as emergency shelter when needed, The Harbour will provide critical services to youth – including transgender youth, a highly vulnerable population among trafficking survivors. Survivors will receive supportive services including financial empowerment curriculum, educational and employment support, counseling, and connection to legal assistance. HLP is a member of the Cook County Human Trafficking Task Force and a part of the Coordinated Service Referral Network, with staff trained in assessing and interacting with youth victims of trafficking. CA/NCF