RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS 
There are approximately 500 beds available to minors who are victims of sex trafficking in the United States. In Illinois there are less than 10.

CHERISH HOUSE

Cherish House is a safe house for trafficked children ages 10-17, providing a secure place where girls are no longer burdened by fear and where they can start to focus on what lies ahead rather than what’s in the past.

Cherish House is one of the only safe options where children can be placed on a 24-hour basis. There is an enormous need for housing victims of child sex trafficking. We work closely with law enforcement and other agencies to care for girls, but the need is still enormous.

As a long-term, trauma informed, residential treatment facility, the house provides physical safety and a loving environment where girls are supported by experienced staff as they gain the skills they need to live a life beyond exploitation. The girls are mentored, learn life skills, and are given educational opportunities that help them shape new lives for themselves.

COURAGE HOUSE

Our years of experience working with trafficked youth have shown us that milestones achieved often regress without extensive ongoing support once the girls leave Cherish House. Young adults (18-25) who have experienced the trauma of sexual exploitation as children are statistically more likely to struggle with homelessness, completing education, joblessness and reduced lifetime earning potential (less than half), early pregnancy and even involvement in the criminal justice system.

Unfortunately, there is a shortage of transitional programs for young adults and the existing programs lack the needed structure and support for young adults who have been sexually exploited or trafficked as children. Courage House is the answer to that need.

What is the vision of Reclaim13’s Young Adult Program?

Reclaim13’s Young Adult program is a trauma-informed, therapeutic program that addresses the specialized needs of sexually exploited children transitioning into young adulthood.

Courage House includes trauma-informed individual and group therapies, vocational and life skills development, and opportunities for continuing educational pursuits. The living environment allows young adults to maintain their own living space, while healing in community with others in a structured environment. These surroundings facilitate their next steps in development and help them to further reclaim their paths of hope and healing.

How Can You Help?

Reclaim13’s goal to open this new program in 2020 has been realized. We need your help to make Courage House a permanent home. Here are some ways you can help.

  • Property Donation (We are currently renting, but ultimately would like a permanent location)

  • Stock Donation

  • IRA Minimum Distribution

  • One Time Gift (help meet continuing start-up needs for this program)

  • Monthly Partner (provide sustainable support)

Contact us at info@reclaim13.org if you have questions or would like more information on our Residential Programs