Empowering Survivors, Ending Exploitation: Our Human Trafficking Mission at OneEighty
Human trafficking is a horrific crime that tears at the fabric of our society. It’s not a distant issue confined to other countries – it’s happening in our own communities. Millions of people are currently trapped in this modern-day slavery, forced to endure unimaginable exploitation. According to the Polaris Project, a leading non-profit organization fighting human trafficking, an estimated 28 million individuals are currently being trafficked worldwide. These victims are subjected to forced labor, sexual exploitation, or both, with devastating consequences for their physical and mental well-being.
At OneEighty, our dedication to serving survivors of sexual assault and abuse includes survivors of human trafficking. We understand that every survivor’s journey is unique, and we provide tailored resources to help them rebuild their lives. From advocacy to education, our work centers on meeting survivors where they are, addressing their immediate and long-term needs, and raising awareness in and around the Wooster community.
Pathways to Assistance at OneEighty
Survivors of human trafficking often find their way to OneEighty through various channels. Gayle Byrne, a Response Specialist and Victim Advocate at OneEighty explains, “Sometimes people are literally knocking on our door, making phone calls, or being referred by the hotline or forensic exams at the hospital.” Strong collaborations with shelters and law enforcement also play a vital role. “We regularly work with shelter staff, sharing our services and connecting directly with clients,” Gayle adds.
This seamless network ensures survivors can access victim advocacy and additional resources without barriers, emphasizing that no two cases are alike. Whether a survivor requires legal assistance, safe housing, or just someone to listen to them, OneEighty adapts to their specific needs.
Addressing Unique Challenges
Survivors of human trafficking often face a range of complex and layered challenges. “Human trafficking survivors often have addiction issues, homelessness, mental health concerns, and other vulnerabilities,” Gayle shares. These factors distinguish trafficking survivors from other populations and underscore the need for specialized support.
Traffickers exploit vulnerabilities such as poverty, foster care placement, or histories of abuse. “Traffickers leverage these vulnerabilities,” Gayle explains. “They identify young people who lack support systems and fill those gaps—initially posing as friends or benefactors before coercing their victims into exploitation.”
Gayle also emphasizes the public’s misconceptions – trafficking is not the same as prostitution, it’s worse. “Many people confuse prostitution with trafficking, assuming it’s a victimless crime. But with trafficking, there’s a third party—someone reaping the benefits while victims are coerced or manipulated into compliance.”
Comprehensive Support Services
The OneEighty Human Trafficking Services Project focuses on increasing support for survivors identified as human trafficking victims, who often face complex safety and support needs. This project enables OneEighty to provide comprehensive care, including:
- Safe Housing: Julia’s Place Shelter offers a secure environment for survivors escaping trafficking, meeting their immediate safety needs. Last year, OneEighty’s shelter housed 113 adults and 67 children for a total of 10,739 days—a 15% increase from the previous fiscal year.
- Mental Health Support: Trauma-informed counseling addresses the long-term psychological impact of exploitation.
- Substance Use Recovery: Many survivors struggle with addiction, often introduced by traffickers as a form of control.
- Legal Advocacy: Assisting survivors who may face criminal charges stemming from coerced activities, such as drug dealing or theft.
- Basic Needs Assistance: From food to documentation, OneEighty ensures survivors have access to essentials like obtaining new identification, applying for PO boxes, and accessing safety resources like security cameras.
“Our goal is to meet people where they are,” Gayle summarized. “Some need multiple services, others only one. Some just want someone to talk to. The key is flexibility.”
Evidence of Need
OneEighty has seen a growing demand for its services due to increased community awareness and referrals. Last year, the organization identified approximately 20 human trafficking victims, representing over 10% of their client base. Despite this growing need, victim services funding specific to human trafficking remains limited.
As the only accredited Rape Crisis Center in Wayne and Holmes Counties, OneEighty provides a vital safety net for survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking. The organization’s comprehensive approach ensures survivors can access shelter, advocacy, counseling, and critical resources to rebuild their lives.
Raising Community Awareness
Education is a cornerstone of OneEighty’s efforts to combat human trafficking. Gayle discusses the importance of equipping teachers, parents, and community members with the knowledge to identify warning signs, such as:
- Changes in appearance or behavior, like suddenly wearing expensive items or looking scruffy
- Prolonged or frequent absences from school
- Unexplained access to money or gifts
“Educating the community is vital,” Gayle notes. “By understanding vulnerabilities and recognizing red flags, we can intervene early and prevent further exploitation.”
How You Can Get Involved in the Fight Against Human Trafficking
Although direct volunteering opportunities may be limited, individuals can still support OneEighty’s mission. “The most important thing is education,” Gayle advises. “Share accurate information about trafficking and dispel urban myths. Look for warning signs in your community and take action if something seems amiss.”
OneEighty also encourages donations to sustain its broad range of services. Every contribution helps provide critical resources like housing, therapy, and legal support for survivors. As OneEighty continues its work, the focus remains on adaptability and comprehensive care. “There is no one-size-fits-all solution,” Gayle says. “Our job is to offer as many resources and opportunities as possible, empowering survivors to regain control over their lives.”
By raising awareness and providing holistic support, OneEighty stands as a beacon of hope for survivors of human trafficking. Together, we can create a community where every individual feels safe, valued, and supported.
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OneEighty Resources
For those encountering a substance use crisis, please call OneEighty’s Substance Use Crisis hotline, available 24 hours per day, 365 days per year, at 330-466-0678. For other resources, click the links below:
Community Relations & Prevention
Substance Use Treatment Navigator Hotline
Intimate Partner & Domestic Violence booklet (Wayne County)Self-Help Legal Manual
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