Hope Against Trafficking empowers adult survivors of human trafficking by providing a transformative two-year residential program that includes rent-free housing and holistic support services.
Empowering Hope
Our core mission here at Hope Against Trafficking is to provide long-term, safe environments and comprehensive support for adult survivors of human trafficking.
Restoring Lives
Working together we must help survivors be restored, and our children be protected.
Human trafficking is the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain labor or a commercial sex act.
Trafficking is a multi-billion-dollar industry and the demand isn’t going away. The roots of prostitution and trafficking are often found in severe childhood abuse, loss and/or neglect. It is these traumatic childhood experiences that push individuals (predominately children) towards homelessness, addiction, prostitution, trafficking and incarceration. (Thistle Farms, 2020).
"I thought I was going to die out there on the streets. Now, for the first time in my life, I have a safe home, a room and bed of my own, and a second chance at life. Hope Against Trafficking saved my life and I will forever be grateful."
- Resident of Hope, 2022
"Because of Hope Against Trafficking, I have the vision to reach my dreams and the grit to push through the challenges that come my way. In a million ways, you have shown me that you love, support, and care. Because of you, I have strength, courage, and faith in myself. Please accept my deepest gratitude."
- Resident of Hope, 2022
"Even though I have only been here a very short time, this is Home, like I have never experienced before. These ladies in this program may not be my blood sisters, but they are my family, and I am so very blessed to have them."
- Resident of Hope, 2022
14-16 Years
The average age of entry into the sex trade in the U.S. is 14 – 16 years old.
- Polaris Project
49.6 Million
It is estimated that globally, 49.6 million people live in modern-day slavery.
- Walkfree.org
Hope Against Trafficking, originally named Monarch Wings as an image of survivors being set free, was started in late 2012 by two women who wanted to do something about the problem of Human Trafficking in Michigan. At that time, it was known there were over 1200 women enslaved in sex trafficking within a three-square mile of Detroit. Subsequently it was determined that trafficking was occurring in every zip code in the state.
Since 2000, with the explosion of the internet, trafficking victimization has quadrupled in the U.S. Research showed that while there was focus on rescuing trafficking survivors, there were no long-term recovery programs in Michigan focused on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual issues as well as life skills and job skills development. The average age victims fall prey to sex traffickers is 12-14 so finishing a GED was also a priority so survivors can be prepared for independence.
While survivor restoration is imperative, Hope’s larger goal is its work to help build awareness and prevention of trafficking. To date over 15,000 people have attended Hope’s Human Trafficking Overview presentation. In addition, Hope developed a school-based curriculum and subsequently aligned with A Courageous Voice in Spring 2023 to begin teaching a certified K-12 grade-based age-appropriate curriculum on Cyber Safety and Security from the Monique Burr Foundation. This program helps children and youth to prevent, recognize, and respond appropriately to all types of child abuse, bullying, cyberbullying, digital dangers, exploitation, and trafficking.
Over the last 10 years, Hope has developed a deep understanding of the needs of trafficking survivors struggling with PTSD trauma and is passionate about the need for our community to come together to prevent trafficking. We are grateful for those who have leaned in to make a difference by giving of their resources, time and treasure. Together, we provide Hope for the future of our children and survivors alike.
Hope Against Trafficking’s three pillars—Comprehensive Programming, Community Awareness and Education, and Social Enterprise—serve as the foundation for empowering survivors and mobilizing community action. Together, these pillars create a holistic approach to addressing human trafficking by supporting survivors’ journeys to independence, educating the public to prevent and combat exploitation, and offering pathways to sustainable employment. Each pillar is a vital component in our mission to build a future free from trafficking, where survivors can thrive and communities can stand united against this injustice.
Hope Against Trafficking offers transformative support through comprehensive programming designed to meet the multifaceted needs of survivors. Our trauma-informed approach includes safe housing, access to healthcare, mental health services, legal assistance, and job training. By addressing each aspect of recovery, we empower survivors to rebuild their lives, fostering resilience and independence. This holistic care not only supports immediate recovery but also builds a strong foundation for long-term well-being.
Our Community Awareness and Education efforts are dedicated to engaging and empowering the public to recognize, prevent, and respond to human trafficking. Through workshops, seminars, and educational resources, we equip individuals, businesses, and community leaders with the knowledge to spot warning signs and take proactive action. By fostering a community-wide understanding of trafficking and its impact, we strive to create safer environments and mobilize collective support for survivors.
The Social Enterprise initiatives of Hope Against Trafficking provide survivors with hands-on skills training and meaningful employment opportunities, all within a supportive community. By participating in socially conscious business operations, survivors gain valuable work experience, financial independence, and a sense of purpose. Our enterprise programs not only aid in recovery and skill-building but also promote self-sufficiency, allowing survivors to contribute positively to society and break free from cycles of exploitation.
We invite you to engage with our mission through various events and volunteer opportunities. By participating, you contribute to our two-year residential program that empowers survivors of human trafficking with safe housing and essential support, enabling them to reclaim their lives and thrive in their communities.
248.499.8416
hello@hopeagainsttrafficking.org
P.O. Box 431413 Pontiac, MI 48343
Mon - Fri: 7 AM - 10 PM
All Rights Reserved | Hope Against Trafficking | 501(c)3
Website Powered By: Ever Studios