Safe House For Victims Of Human Trafficking In The Works
DETROIT (WWJ) - Although the subject matter is disturbing; human trafficking continues to be an issue in this country and an active issue in Michigan.
But the tide is turning and strides are being made to create more awareness, education and an escape from trafficking.
Common Ground in Oakland County is working with community and business leaders to establish a safe house and a comprehensive treatment program.
WWJ's Marie Osborne reports that recovery programs can last years and are extensive; encompassing health care, legal services, education and counseling.
"Those are long-term treatment programs and also to get them back on their feet so they don't have to return to that environment," said Program Manager Margo Eby. "Many of them would not go back home because that may be the environment they were taken from."
Eby says it's important to teach the victims of trafficking - life skills to integrate back into society.
It is hoped that the doors of Chandler House will open soon but more funding is needed.
"What we are here for is to try and provide hope to the community and what better way than to take people who are at their lowest and have nothing and give them something," said Vice President Vickie Krigner.
Krigner says that long-term intensive treatment is key to help victims thrive.
"No one wants slavery in 2014 - the hard part for us is coming up with the dollars to get it going," said Krigner.
With several fundraisers planned this year, Common Ground hopes to have the safe house open by the end of 2014.
Find more information about Common Ground [HERE] and Upcoming Events [HERE]