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An alliance of seventy-four religious, legal, and support organizations across the US has sounded warnings regarding the withholding of $88m in federal funding allocated for survivors of human trafficking.

Services Under Threat

Per a joint letter, the DOJ has suspended funding for in excess of 100 service providers that assist individuals break free from exploiters and access essential services including emergency shelter, therapy, and personalized care.

"Allowing such resources to be cut would allow exploitation to flourish and endanger victims," the letter states. "Many regions will lose their primary support network, stranding victims with nowhere to turn for shelter."

Appeal for Intervention

The coalition is asking legislators to encourage the executive branch to restore the allocated money to safeguard thousands of victims nationwide.

This appeal is in response to investigations that the national leadership has reduced initiatives to address forced labor, although spokespersons dispute any withdrawal on victim support policies.

Consequences for Regions

• Many assistance providers had their resources cut effective the end of last month.
• In the absence of these funds, survivors may be denied to essential support like emergency housing, counseling, and representation.
• Traffickers could exploit freely, making communities less safe.

Administration's Position

Regarding concerns over the frozen funds, the DOJ clarified that money appropriated by Congress would be distributed in due course, but noted that former beneficiaries might not receive funding in the future.

Subsequent funding are to be determined in accordance with the government's goals, the department commented.

Historical Support

The letter further notes that lawmakers has consistently supported to maintain these programs over the past 25 years, reinforcing the critical importance of adequately resourcing lifesaving programs to safeguard victims and stop further abuse.