Debra Rush, CEO of Breaking the Chains, poses for a photo with Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. Courtesy of Breaking the Chains
This organization is among the honorees to be recognized at The Business Journal’s inaugural Philanthropy Excellence Awards for its commitment to improving the wellbeing of the Central Valley. Winners in each award category will be announced during the program on Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Pardini’s Catering & Banquets. Visit eventbrite.com for Philanthropy Excellence Awards tickets.
Breaking the Chains has become a vital resource for survivors of human trafficking throughout California’s Central Valley, providing comprehensive services aimed at assisting individuals rebuilding their lives.
Co-founded by CEO Debra Rush, herself a survivor of human trafficking, the Fresno-based nonprofit provides emergency shelter, residential housing, counseling, case management and legal advocacy for adults and minors affected by sex and labor trafficking.
The organization also offers educational support, vocational training, employment assistance and life skills development to help survivors achieve long-term independence.
Breaking the Chains provides trauma-informed services to approximately 150 survivors and their families daily, the organization reports.
In its recent reporting period, the nonprofit provided over 1,000 case-management services, along with 337 transportation services and 220 emotional support contacts. It also developed or updated 128 safety plans and delivered 64 counseling sessions.
Beyond its direct services, Breaking the Chains works with local law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, schools and community organizations, strengthening trafficking prevention and survivor identification.
Its community partnerships include Fresno Mission, City Without Orphans and Marjaree Mason Center.
Over the past year, the nonprofit has expanded its residential and non-residential programs while strengthening volunteer recruitment, professional training and fundraising initiatives.
Through its combination of emergency intervention, prevention education and long-term support, Breaking the Chains continues working to help trafficking survivors transition from crisis to stability and independence.