Harriet Tubman Movement

For 2021, The Harriet Tubman Movement filed Form 990EZ, so we have not previously described our services fully. The Harriet Tubman Movement has grown to offer individualized, tailored case management support for sex trafficking victim clients who are working toward a life of restoration. Laura Bartchak, who was a Founder and acting Director on a volunteer basis, was contracted as Executive Director to oversee programming and daily operations of the organization in 2022. Advocates responded to 68 new referrals from law enforcement, healthcare staff, shelters, counselors, and the community when a potential victim was identified. Advocates were dispatched to assess the situation and provide for immediate needs such as food, clothing, or connection with medical services. Advocates transported victims to safe shelter and worked over a period of time to present options for long-term restoration with new clients, as well as with existing clients from previous year(s). Individualized goals were established and barriers to goals assessed. Material support, case management, and personal advocacy were offered to overcome those barriers, such as help obtaining IDs, working on court obligations, addressing medical issues and more. Transportation was then provided for our clients who chose to go to a long-term restoration program, both in and outside of Ohio. Support was offered to survivors who returned to the area after completion of a program, in order to aid the transition to independent living.