Community Corner
Supplies for Human Trafficking Survivors Stolen in Worcester
Massachusetts nonprofit seeks support after backpacks, gift cards, and emergency resources are stolen
WORCESTER, MA - Ready Inspire Act (RIA), a Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization that provides free services to adult survivors of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and prostitution throughout the Commonwealth, is asking for community support after emergency supplies intended for vulnerable individuals were stolen from a staff member's vehicle in Worcester.
RIA serves adults across Massachusetts through peer mentorship, clinical therapy, case management, support groups, financial assistance, outreach services, and basic necessities that help survivors move toward safety, stability, and recovery. All services are provided at no cost to receiving support.
Much of the organization's work is made possible through donations from individuals, businesses, and community partners who believe every survivor deserves access to compassionate, trauma-informed care.
Last week, RIA staff member and survivor advocate Ivette Monge spent the day preparing emergency response backpacks that would be used to assist adults identified through anti-human trafficking outreach efforts and referrals across Massachusetts. The backpacks were stocked with clothing, toiletries, hairbrushes, bottled water, snacks, and gift cards donated by members of the community.
After returning home exhausted from the day's work, Monge inadvertently left her vehicle unlocked. Overnight, the vehicle was entered and the supplies were stolen, along with her wallet, identification, and bank cards.
The backpacks were intended for adults leaving trafficking and exploitation situations—individuals who often escape with little or nothing of their own.
"When someone leaves a trafficker, they usually leave with nothing," said Monge, who has been in long-term recovery for more than 15 years and now dedicates her life to helping others find hope and healing. "These backpacks weren't just supplies. They represented comfort, dignity, and the knowledge that someone cares enough to show up."
Following the theft, unauthorized purchases were made using Monge's bank cards at businesses in the Worcester area, leaving her account overdrawn and creating an additional financial burden.
RIA is among several organizations working alongside the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office and community partners to strengthen anti-human trafficking efforts and ensure support is available when adults seek help.
The organization's outreach model centers on meeting people where they are. Mentors travel throughout Massachusetts, building trust through consistent, nonjudgmental support. Whether someone is ready for help immediately or months later, RIA remains committed to walking alongside them.
"A lot of people don't realize human trafficking exists in our communities, but it does," Monge said. "We meet people where they are, without judgment. We show up with compassion, resources, and hope. Sometimes it takes time before someone is ready to accept help, and that's okay. We keep showing up."
Despite the setback, Monge remains focused on the mission.
"On my way to pick up donated backpacks after the theft, I came across a woman in need," she said. "Normally, I would have had supplies in my vehicle to give her. Instead, all I could do was buy her something to drink. It was heartbreaking because those are the moments when those backpacks matter."
RIA is now working to replace the stolen supplies as quickly as possible to ensure that survivors throughout Massachusetts continue to receive the support they need when they are ready to take the next step toward safety and recovery.
How to Help
RIA is seeking financial donations and in-kind contributions to replace the stolen backpacks and emergency supplies, including clothing, toiletries, snacks, bottled water, and gift cards.
Donations can be made through RIA's PayPal Giving Fund.
Every contribution helps ensure that adult survivors of trafficking and exploitation across Massachusetts can access critical resources and support at no cost.
About Ready Inspire Act (RIA)
Ready Inspire Act (RIA) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization that serves adult survivors of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and prostitution throughout the Commonwealth. Through free peer mentorship, clinical therapy, case management, support groups, financial assistance, outreach services, and basic necessities, RIA helps survivors access resources, healing, and long-term recovery. The organization is committed to meeting people where they are and providing support grounded in dignity, compassion, and hope.
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