User:KatherineH1/sandbox

Overview
Safe harbors can be used as place to process the trauma the Juvenile experienced. They are a great resource for those who may not be ready to reintroduce themselves to society as a whole. Safe Harbors provide safety and typically help begin different types of therapy that can be used.

Safe harbors can be used to place youth who have been sexually exploited or trafficked to process trauma rather than be treated as delinquents. By placing them in a Safe harbor you reduce the chance of unintended negative effects that can occur while detaining them after the horrifying experience they have just been through. (..."issues with legal challenges and unintended negative effects that detention centers can provide, there is more education and research that can be done.")

Runaway youth and children have more risk factors that can lead to being sexually trafficked. In many cases the youth are more susceptible and are not aware that they are committing crimes. Once released or escaped they tend to be treated as delinquents rather than victims. this response is not helpful and rather can cause more trauma. By placing them in a safe harbor they can start to receive the necessary resources.

History of sex trafficking in Minnesota

Sexual exploitation of youth in Minnesota, unfortunately gets missed and then goes undocumented. However, we have made some progress in improvements. One program includes No Wrong Door and MN has increased the age barrier to include more individuals that are eligible receives the services needed.

Minnesota launched a new statewide system to help decriminalize youth and adolescents that have been sexually trafficked and exploited. They provide counseling, housing, and support. The system removes any charges that the victims may have encountered.

Minnesota Launches Safe Harbor for Sexually Exploited Youth. (2014, Aug 04). Targeted News

Minnesota is also running a prevention program. It is set up with protocols that are victim centered. The goal is to bridge the gaps and create tools to help in all sectors.