Human Trafficking Victims Aided By Orange County Rescue Mission

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — The Orange County Rescue Mission announced the launch of Strong Beginnings, a comprehensive program that provides assistance to women escaping human trafficking in Orange County.

The new program offers emergency shelter, transitional housing, care coordination, case management, advocacy services, mental health assistance, legal assistance, counseling, primary healthcare and dental services, career training and development to victims at no cost.

Jim Palmer, President of Orange County Rescue Mission, discussed the silent yet prevalent issues of Human Trafficking in the county. “Many in our community don’t realize that trafficking happens here," he said. "People are often surprised to learn that Orange County has become a destination for human traffickers in recent years.”

Palmer points to statistics from the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force, which has helped more than 500 victims of human trafficking since its inception and reports that the number of victims continues to rise. The task force assisted 284 human trafficking victims in 2016, a 26-percent increase from the prior year.

“The initial challenge in helping people who have been affected by human trafficking is identifying these individuals,” notes Palmer. “The social side of this issue is very complicated. Many victims feel confused, lost, and sometimes embarrassed about their situation. We are actively working with many non-profit and local law enforcement agencies to find those that can benefit from our extensive services.”

The Orange County Rescue Mission has partnered with Lives Worth Saving, Trinity Law School, Hurtt Family Health Care Clinics, St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Orange County District Attorney, the County of Orange, and local law enforcement agencies for referrals to its new program.

“Strong Beginnings is a comprehensive program that avoids re-traumatization and provides trauma-informed care through a victim-centered approach,” says Palmer. “This new program reflects our deep dedication to furthering awareness of this issue and delivering the help that is needed to support victims in once again leading healthy, safe lives.”

Victims of human trafficking or those who know a victim are encouraged to call Samantha Eitner, Case Manager for the Strong Beginnings Program at (714) 483-0100.

Community members and local businesses interested in supporting the Strong Beginnings Program can contact Anna Song, Development Director for Strong Beginnings at (714) 247-4377.

Shutterstock Photo