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A coalition of 74 advocacy, legal, and faith-based entities across the nation has expressed concerns regarding the withholding of $88 million in public money designated for survivors of human trafficking.

Support Systems at Risk

According to a unified message, the DOJ has frozen funding for over a hundred assistance organizations that help victims leave abusive situations and secure necessary resources such as safe accommodation, mental health support, and guidance.

"Permitting these funds to vanish would facilitate modern slavery and put survivors’ lives at risk," the letter states. "Various communities will lose their primary support network, stranding victims with no safe emergency housing."

Urgent Request

The alliance is urging legislators to encourage the federal government to restore the funding to support thousands of affected individuals across the country.

This plea comes after reports that the national leadership has reduced initiatives to fight human trafficking, although officials reject any pullback on anti-trafficking policies.

Effects on Local Areas

• Several service organizations saw their funding end effective the final day of the previous month.
• Without this funding, victims may be denied to crucial assistance like temporary accommodation, counseling, and representation.
• Criminals could operate with impunity, making communities less safe.

Official Statement

Regarding concerns over the withheld money, the Justice Department indicated that public dollars would be utilized at a later time, but added that previous grantees may not receive funding in the future.

Subsequent funding are to be determined based on the leadership's priorities, the office commented.

Longstanding Backing

The document further notes that the legislative branch has consistently supported to maintain these programs over the last quarter-century, underscoring the critical importance of properly financing lifesaving programs to assist individuals and avoid repeat victimization.