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A consortium of over seventy religious, legal, and support groups across the United States has sounded warnings regarding the withholding of $88m in government funds earmarked for victims of modern slavery.

Support Systems at Risk

Per a joint letter, the DOJ has frozen monetary aid for in excess of 100 support groups that aid survivors leave abusive situations and access crucial support including housing, counseling, and case management.

"Permitting these funds to disappear would allow exploitation to flourish and threaten lives," the communication emphasizes. "Numerous areas will be without their sole assistance organization, abandoning individuals with no safe emergency housing."

Call to Action

The group is urging Congress to compel the federal government to release the funding to support thousands of trafficking survivors nationwide.

This appeal is in response to findings that the administration has scaled down initiatives to address forced labor, even as spokespersons deny any withdrawal on victim support actions.

Effects on Local Areas

• Numerous service organizations saw their funding end starting the last day of September.
• Lacking financial support, individuals may lose access to essential support including safe shelter, mental health care, and legal aid.
• Exploiters could exploit freely, increasing risks for vulnerable populations.

Government Response

When asked about inquiries over the frozen funds, the DOJ indicated that funds allocated by lawmakers would be utilized at a later time, but noted that former beneficiaries may not receive funding in the coming years.

Subsequent funding are to be determined based on the leadership's priorities, the office explained.

Past Endorsement

The document further notes that the legislative branch has consistently supported to maintain these services over the previous decades, underscoring the essential role of properly financing essential services to protect survivors and stop further abuse.