When individuals who have been victims of labor trafficking are identified, the U.S. government offers support to help them stabilize their immigration status and access the necessary aid for rebuilding their lives in the United States. Through various programs, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) certifies trafficking victims who are non-U.S. citizens, granting them access to federally funded benefits and services comparable to those provided to refugees. U.S. citizen victims of trafficking do not require certification and may already be eligible for numerous benefits.
Certified or eligible victims, based on the letters issued by HHS, can avail themselves of benefits and services such as food assistance, healthcare, and employment support. Certified trafficking victims can also access programs that provide English language instruction and skills training to facilitate job placement. Given that many victims are hesitant to come forward due to deportation fears, HHS plays a crucial role in connecting them with nonprofit organizations prepared to assist and address their specific needs. These organizations offer counseling, case management, and coordinate benefits to aid in their recovery process.
For additional help, information, and support you can contact the U.S. Department of Labor’s Get Help page.
Time to Thrive was developed by the Survive & Thrive Advocacy Center in Tallahassee, Florida. We created this site as a resource just for you. No matter where you live, this information is for you.
If you live in Tallahassee or these six North Florida counties (Leon,Gadsden, Jefferson, Liberty, Franklin, and Wakulla) feel free to reach out to us at 850-597-2080. We consider this phone number a warm line. It is not monitored 24/7 like a hotline but we do our best to respond to text and phone calls within 24 hours.
If you live outside of Tallahassee we suggest contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or visiting Survive & Thrive Advocacy Center’s Get Help page to find the right resource for you.
Read more about contacting hotlines here.