Project LIFE Transitional Housing Services for Human Trafficking Victims in San Diego County

The goal of the FY 2020 Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Human Trafficking Program is to support housing assistance for victims of all forms of human trafficking throughout the United States, as defined by the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000, as amended. Funding through this solicitation supports programs that provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing with support services to victims of human trafficking who are in need of housing as a result of human trafficking. Funding will be provided over a three-year project period. North County Lifeline is requesting funding to sustain transitional housing services for trafficking victims in San Diego County. Lifeline’s transitional housing program utilizes a Housing First model, meaning that many of the usual factors that preclude trafficking victims for qualifying for other long-term housing programs (substance use/abuse, untreated mental health issues, prior criminal record) are not an issue. It is this type of least restrictive housing for trafficking victims that is in shortest supply and of greatest need in San Diego County, and that is most conductive to providing trafficking victims with the safety and stability they need to shift out of a crisis mindset and begin working toward self-sufficiency. Lifeline plans serve approximately 75 trafficking victims over the project period. In addition to housing, clients may elect to participate in supportive services including, but not limited to ongoing case management, medical and dental care, (limited) legal assistance, literacy/GED/education assistance, LGBTQ services, substance abuse treatment, trauma counseling, life skills training, and employment and financial coaching. CA/NCF