Here at SASSMM, we offer support to children and adults who are impacted by sexual violence-- that includes a survivor's loved ones or even the community at large.
In December, we are offering a free, virtual training on Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking of Youth in Maine. This event will be offered at two times:
This training will build knowledge and skills related to the exploitation and trafficking of children/teens across the state. (Including an overview of the systems currently in place that support these victims and survivors.) This training is created for anyone working with youth in residential, school, behavioral health, crisis, or community settings. Individuals working in Eastern Cumberland, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox and Waldo counties will have priority registration. |
Sadly, we know that youth in Maine are experiencing sexual exploitation and trafficking. According to the Maine Human Trafficking Needs Assessment in 2015, there are an estimated 200-300 victims of sex trafficking in Maine per year-- most of whom are between the ages of 14-30. Knowing that the risk of victimization increases during a social crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic, it critical to understand child exploitation and trafficking in our community, and to develop skills to help children and teens who may be impacted.