SALT LAKE CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--January is Human Trafficking and Slavery Prevention Month, an ideal time to note that Utah ranks #4 per capita in reported human trafficking cases, according to the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
A new organization in Salt Lake City is stepping forward to fill the gap in home-like living accommodations, empowerment, social enterprise and training for Utah’s female victims who need support.
Introducing the Aspen Magdalene House
The Aspen Magdalene House (“Aspen”) organization started in March 2018 with a model and plan to support female victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in achieving safety, freedom, recovery and preparation to move forward with new life skills and opportunities.
Brittney is an Aspen board member and a trafficking survivor. “You would think the day I was arrested would be my worst day ever, but I look back on that day and know it saved my life,” said Brittney. “Jail was escape for me and I credit the police officer for saving my life. He has been there to support my obtaining care and getting back on my feet.”
Brittney is now using her experience to help victims who are often reluctant to accept help.
The scope of the problem
By definition, human trafficking is the use of fraud, force or coercion to cause a commercial sexual act. Perpetrators promise protection, a home or adventure or exchange for rent to lure and manipulate women and men, and girls and boys who are high-risk, including those who are homeless, needing rent money, as well as youth aging out or receiving insufficient support in homes or foster care.
Some mistakenly believe that slavery is a thing of the past but most analysts say it is more prevalent now than ever before. Consider these facts:
- Human trafficking is a $150 billion industry worldwide that uses force, fraud and coercion to sexually exploit individuals.
- The International Labour Organization estimates approximately 40.3 million victims of human trafficking globally.
- It is the most criminal and profitable enterprise, second to drug trafficking.
Aspen is a sister organization of Thistle Farms, a national network of nonprofits helping women survivors of trafficking find healing, hope and freedom. In June 2019, a University of Utah research team partnered with the Salt Lake City Mayor’s Office, Salt Lake City Council and Salt Lake District Attorney’s Office to complete a needs assessment.
The report illustrates the need for increased support and a coordinated community response for long-term comprehensive service provision for survivors of human trafficking. Following the report, Aspen created a board of directors that includes survivors and established a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Aspen Magdalene House is one-of-a-kind as no model currently exists in Utah with comprehensive programming, services and housing for this underserved population.
Aspen is ready but community funding and support is needed
Starting in January 2021, the organization began actively raising funds through donations, grants and financing. With that support, the organization is hiring an Executive Director and securing property in Greater Salt Lake to create a home-like residence to support 8-10 survivors at a time and provide them with long-term care and support.
“I never would have guessed Utah has the 4th highest per capita reported cases and the numbers are growing,” said Pamela Atkinson, vice chairman of the board. “Once I started doing research, I realized how pervasive it is here and around the world. It’s taken on new forms during the pandemic too as people are on the precipice of eviction.”
The organization welcomes all community partners and resources that can help to answer the need for financial support.
“While Salt Lake City has clinics and a network of short-term housing, nothing like Aspen House is available in the area,” said Kori Renwick, Aspen board chairman. “It’s a critical need. While Brittney made it, many don’t.”
About Aspen House
Aspen House (www.aspenhouseslc.org) believes victims and survivors of human trafficking deserve healing, dignity and opportunity. Our mission is to provide a home-like residence that’s offering a safe and nurturing environment to empower women. Through social enterprise, residents learn skills and have an opportunity become self-sufficient. We are guided by the declaration “Love Heals.” Love is the most powerful force for change in the world by building a movement that connects survivors, customers, advocates and communities. For more information, contributions or partnership discussions, visit www.aspenhouseslc.org.
