PENNSYLVANIA – The Salvation Army of Eastern Pennsylvania has been awarded a state grant of $250,000 to expand an effective program that helps victims of human trafficking, a news release says.
The funding was announced by state Reps. Jennifer O’Mara, Johanny Cepeda-Freyitz, and Manuel Guzman Jr. on Wednesday.
The Salvation Army’s New Day to Stop Trafficking Program was established 15 years ago in Philadelphia and, with this new grant, it will be expanded across eastern Pennsylvania.
Officials say the program provides critical services to victims of sex and labor trafficking, ensuring they have a safe and supportive environment while transitioning toward a healthy future.
Last year, the program served more than 1,100 victims with trauma-informed case management, housing navigation and other essential support services, the group says.
“This program has a long track record of success,” O’Mara said.
“Our delegation was fully supportive of this new funding, and we’re proud to see it come to fruition for communities across our region. The Salvation Army’s work is grounded in dignity, safety, and the belief that every survivor deserves a chance to rebuild their lives on their own terms,” she added.
“Our commonwealth has one of the highest numbers of human trafficking cases in the nation, and it takes place in every community, whether we can easily see it or not,” Cepeda-Freytiz said.
“The work the Salvation Army has done in Philadelphia has been vital in supporting victims of this exploitation. I am glad to see this funding secured and look forward to seeing the New Day program expanded further into the state,” she added.
The grant was awarded through a program at the state Department of Human Services.