Attorney General Lynn Fitch has announced the distribution of nearly $3.9 million from the Victims of Human Trafficking and Commercial Sexual Exploitation Fund to thirteen organizations dedicated to helping human trafficking victims rebuild their lives.
This marks the third round of grants from the fund, established by the Mississippi Legislature in 2020, bringing the total funds awarded for victim services to $8.5 million.
“Few crimes rob a person of their humanity, power, and dignity like human trafficking, but we do not have to let it steal their future,” said Attorney General Fitch.
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Fitch praised Mississippi’s nonprofit organizations for their commitment to walking alongside victims on their journey toward healing and restoration.
“Working together, we can put an end to the dangerous human trafficking enterprise,” she continued, thanking the State Legislature for ensuring these organizations have the necessary resources to support survivors.
This year, 17 applications were submitted for funding, requesting a total of $6.8 million. The thirteen organizations selected will use the grants for housing, legal services, transportation, mental health support, and workforce development programs for survivors.
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Key Recipients and Initiatives:
- Center for Violence Prevention ($932,019.35) – Expanding the Tower residential program and the Rapid Response Team to provide 24/7 crisis intervention and rehabilitation services.
- Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence ($560,000.00) – Developing Mississippi’s first Family Justice Center model, a one-stop service hub for trafficking victims that will integrate law enforcement, court services, and advocacy groups.
- Southern Christian Services ($739,500.00) – Continuing to operate Mississippi’s only safe home for adolescent trafficking survivors, offering long-term therapeutic care.
- Mississippi Coalition Against Human Trafficking ($366,560.00) – Expanding its Independent Living Assistance Program, which has already impacted 80 women in Mississippi, and hiring additional program staff to assist survivors in South Mississippi.
- Hope Village for Children ($296,920.00) – Launching a specialized residential treatment program for minor female victims of trafficking, focusing on mental health, education, and workforce preparation.
- El Pueblo ($104,284.21) – Providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services for victims, with a focus on outreach to Hispanic communities and long-term recovery support.
- On the Road Lending ($200,000.00) – Assisting survivors in achieving financial independence by providing reliable vehicles and financial coaching.
These grants aim to empower survivors, disrupt trafficking networks, and build a statewide infrastructure for victim support. Fitch emphasized that Mississippi is taking proactive steps to ensure victims receive comprehensive care and resources to reclaim their lives.
More information about the fund, application process, and grant guidelines is available on the Attorney General’s Office website.
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