There are few things in this world worse than human trafficking. A plight that plagues numerous countries, victims of this barbaric crime are sold and moved around the world for a number of heinous reasons, and while there is outspoken anger about the human traffickers and how they should be punished with their crimes, the voice speaking for the victims themselves are less heard. So often families or friends of the missing are spending their own resources hoping to find their loved ones, usually with little help from government officials, and although the dark reality is that many cases may not see a happy return, the other side is not filled with joy either.
Even when rescued, victims of crimes such as human trafficking may still suffer depression, PTSD, and various other forms of mental illness. What makes matters worse is that when rescued, victims of human trafficking may be faraway from home, possibly with no idea of where they are currently, and after awful treatment for such a prolonged period of time it can be difficult to trust people, even if those people are trying to help. Unfortunately, mental illnesses are not quick fixes, and extensive work must be done to work through some of the trauma. However the good news is that there are programs that exist to help remedy this and help victims as much as they can. The Trafficking and Crime Victims Assistance Program (TCVAP) is one such program. Dedicated to assisting immigrant survivors of not just human trafficking, but domestic violence and other similar crimes as well, this program seeks to provide comprehensive case management, housing support, and legal services for victims. Stable housing is especially important, and gives a safe space to victims as they seek to reconnect with their world. So, while emotional support may not be at the forefront, these services help provide a semblance of stability to people who's lives were uprooted and can be a foundation on the road to recovery.
Alameda County, California, under the Alameda County Social Services Agency (ACSSA) is requesting services of the TCVAP to assist in their goal of providing support for victims of human trafficking and similar crimes. Focused on the goal of housing and economic self-sufficiency, this program is one aspect of a broader network of programs seeking to aid displaced persons as much as they can. They are seeking proposals from community-based organizations, as well as public or private, for-profit or non-profit, to provide TCAP services starting October 1, 2025. If interested in this opportunity to help victims of such despicable crimes, click on the link to learn more. The bid closes May 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM PDT.
