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A coalition of over seventy advocacy, legal, and faith-based organizations across the nation has sounded warnings regarding the freezing of eighty-eight million dollars in public money earmarked for victims of modern slavery.

Services at Risk

Per a unified message, the DOJ has frozen funding for more than 100 support groups that aid survivors leave abusive situations and access essential services such as emergency shelter, therapy, and personalized care.

"Allowing this money to be cut would allow exploitation to flourish and endanger victims," the communication emphasizes. "Many regions will be without their only service provider, stranding victims with no safe emergency housing."

Call to Action

The group is pressuring Congress to push the federal government to release the financial support to support numerous victims throughout the US.

This appeal follows investigations that the national leadership has rolled back programs to combat modern slavery, even as spokespersons reject any withdrawal on anti-trafficking actions.

Effects on Local Areas

• Many assistance providers saw their funding end effective the last day of September.
• Lacking financial support, victims may be denied to crucial assistance like temporary accommodation, mental health care, and advocacy.
• Criminals could exploit freely, making communities less safe.

Administration's Position

In response to inquiries over the frozen funds, the department clarified that money appropriated by Congress would be spent eventually, but emphasized that former beneficiaries wouldn’t necessarily get financial support in the future.

Subsequent funding will be made aligned with the leadership's objectives, the office commented.

Longstanding Backing

The document also highlights that Congress has consistently supported to maintain such initiatives over the past 25 years, reinforcing the vital necessity of properly financing essential services to assist individuals and prevent re-exploitation.