PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – Attorney General Jason Miyares recently announced additional funding to improve outcomes for youth victims of human trafficking during Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
According to a release, the $1.29 million grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime will be used to expand research, enhance training and to start innovative support programs for child victims of human trafficking.
“No child should ever have to endure the horrors of human trafficking,” Miyares said. “This comprehensive multi-year plan will leverage the expertise and resources of our public and private partners to identify victims, dismantle trafficking networks, and ensure survivors receive the compassionate, trauma-informed care they deserve. By tackling gaps in identification, training, and services, Virginia will continue to act as a national leader in combating child and youth trafficking for years to come.”
The release also states that many traffickers specifically target minors through social media, the foster care system and by taking advantage of runaway and homeless youth.
Those who believe they have come in contact with a victim of human trafficking are urged not to confront the suspect, but to instead call 911. A list of resources can be found below:
- 24/7 National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
- National Human Trafficking SMS Line: 233733 (Text “HELP” or “INFO”)
- Text 847411 to send an anonymous tip (Type “VSP” followed by the information you wish to share)
- Submit anonymous tips online here
- Virginia Child Protection Services Hotline (for juveniles): 1-800-552-7096
- Virginia Victims Assistance Network (for adults): 833-463-6448
For more information on the grant, click here.
