Human trafficking victims in the D.C. area will soon have another place to turn.
The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command is set to open on Wednesday an emergency shelter for victims.
The shelter with space to house eight women or men fleeing any type of trafficking is being set up to be comfortable and homey. The staff will call the residents guests and offer them comprehensive services, including medical care, trauma therapy and employment training.
To protect the residents, The Salvation Army will not disclose the shelter's location. Shelter staffers will meet people in need of help at a designated public place and take them to safety.
Salvation Army Maj. Leisa Hall said she and her colleagues found that while the D.C. area has programs that help trafficking victims, there was no place providing emergency, short-term assistance. They hope the new shelter will fill that gap.
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The Salvation Army is seeking the public's help through donations. They particularly need gift cards, toiletries and household items. If you can help, go to the organization's website, here.
If you need help, go here. Also, you can call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.