Albuquerque organization awarded $500,000 from the Department of Justice for housing to victims of human trafficking

            ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The Department of Justice today announced awards totaling over $35 million in grant funding to provide safe, stable housing and appropriate services to victims of human trafficking. Among those receiving awards is First Nations Community HealthSource in Albuquerque, New Mexico, set to receive $500,000. 

            “One of the most significant issues facing victims of human trafficking is economic security,” said John C. Anderson, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico. “Without an immediate source of income and a place to live, they need assistance with transitional housing as well as employment assistance to help them reestablish themselves in the long term. These grants support local organizations such as First Nations Community HealthSource in their efforts to provide the services victims need to regain their stability and sense of security.”

            The grants will go to 73 organizations to provide 6 to 24 months of transitional or short-term housing assistance for trafficking victims, including rental, utilities or related expenses, such as security deposits and relocation costs. The grants will also provide funding for support needed to help victims locate permanent housing, secure employment and receive occupational training and counseling.

            The Office of Justice Programs, directed by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan, provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, assist victims and enhance the rule of law by strengthening the criminal and juvenile justice systems.

            For more information about programs, services and locations for First Nations Community HealthSource, visit their website at fnch.org.

            More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.

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