Housing and Employment Assistance to Victims of Human Trafficking

International Institute of Buffalo’s (IIB) Human Trafficking Survivor Support and Employment Programs, along with partner Neighborhood Legal Services, seek to expand and improve specialized housing services for 35-50 survivors of human trafficking in Erie County, New York. Funding will specifically support (1) provision of housing interventions and related services to victims of trafficking; (2) collaboration with, and training for, local partners to ensure victims are identified and referred for appropriate housing and services; (3) referrals to other essential services for victims of trafficking; (4) improved outcomes for victims by providing support services; and (5) collection of data and participation in evaluation activities to determine if the program is meeting stated goals and objectives.
 

IIB will continue the successful practices of utilizing a housing-specific case manager, offering skill-based educational groups related to seeking and maintaining safe and stable housing, providing financial short-term housing assistance, providing civil legal vacatur through referrals to Neighborhood Legal Services, thereby minimizing impediments to accessing housing and employment, and offering follow-up support services through IIB core case managers including transportation, substance use/mental health counseling, and medical services.

IIB will improve and expand its program by utilizing an employment specialist with expertise in employment and job retention counseling, occupational training, and workforce re-entry.