U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have announced that J Bar J Youth Services in Bend has secured a $300,000 federal grant to battle human trafficking.
“The crime of human trafficking devastates lives and demands a serious and substantive effort to end it in Oregon and nationwide,” Wyden said. ”I’m gratified that J Bar J Youth Services has earned these federal resources to fight this scourge in Central Oregon with its local expertise and hard-working staff.”
“We must do everything in our power to protect people from the horrors of human trafficking,” Merkley said. “This essential funding to J Bar J Youth Services will help ensure this critically important organization can continue to support youth in Central Oregon and protect Oregonians from dangerous situations.”
The $300,000 for J Bar J Youth Services from the federal Administration for Children and Families will fund anti-trafficking efforts for domestic victims. “The at:project is grateful to have received this funding opportunity,” said Breanne Barrett, Program Director for the at:project — a program of J Bar J Youth Services. “This grant will allow us to extend and enhance crucial services to victims and survivors of human trafficking in Central Oregon. From crisis intervention services to long-term case management, the at:project is committed to supporting survivors through their healing journey. This funding is not just a financial boost; it’s a lifeline for those who need it most. It fuels our passion, determination and commitment to creating a community free of exploitation.”
“J Bar J Youth Services is proud of our at:project team who has worked diligently to build a response system to combat trafficking in Central Oregon,” said Eliza Wilson, Director of Runaway and Homeless Youth Services at J Bar J Youth Services.“Our mission at J Bar J Youth Services is to prevent trafficking at all costs and to provide care and resources to those impacted by human trafficking. This grant supports those ongoing efforts.”
This story is based on submitted information and has not been verified by our news team.
This article appears in Source Weekly November 30, 2023.
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