Sojourner House Transitional Housing for 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. Sojourner House will create five transitional housing units for victims of human trafficking in Rhode Island and provide supportive services designed to help them overcome their exploitation. The project will create a bridge to safe, permanent, and affordable housing and help these victims reclaim their lives. During the three-year grant, Sojourner House will serve 16 victims. Sojourner House will provide support services to help clients locate and secure permanent housing, work towards becoming financially self-sufficient, and heal from trauma. Staff advocates will provide intensive case management services with a harm reduction and trauma-informed approach. Program staff will also connect victims to vocational and educational programs, medical services and substance abuse treatment, benefits assistance, community action programs, and food and basic needs assistance. The Clinical Director will provide one-on-one therapy and support groups to address the root causes of their trauma. Recognizing that many victims of trafficking experience sexual health issues, we will offer free HIV testing and sexual health advocacy. Once a client secures permanent housing, program staff will continue to provide follow-up advocacy and case management services for at least 6 months. CA/NCF