crisis
The crisis stage is our first connection with the survivor. A survivor in crisis could be someone who has recently escaped trafficking or someone who has been struggling for years to heal and get back on track. Case managers and counselors will assess each survivor’s situation and will help the survivor with their next steps.
Typically, we handle around 30 to 40 crisis cases each year. However, in the latter half of 2023, between August and December, we dealt with 141 crisis cases. In 2024, we have already exceeded our usual workload for the entire year, with a growth rate of 252.5%.
Basic Food & Hygiene Needs: Case managers/counselors will help trafficking victims fulfil their basic needs. Often this is as simple as a warm meal or a box of tampons.
Build Trust: Case managers/counselors work to develop a healthy relationship with trafficking victims and build trust.
Connect with Detox Partners: If needed, victims are asked to complete a detox program. Often victims of trafficking are forced by traffickers into taking drugs, leading them to develop addictions.
Safety Planning: Case managers/counselors work with trafficking victims to develop safety plans to protect their physical and mental health.
Exiting the Life: Case managers/counselors work with trafficking victims to develop exit plans to help women who are currently being trafficked leave their traffickers and find safety. Covered partners with local police agencies to help victims exit the trafficking life.
Assessment & Intake:
Survivors’ material possessions will be scanned for tracers. Traffickers often use tracers to monitor their victims.
Some survivors will come to Covered House to begin stabilization, while some are not safe to stay in Colorado. Covered will assist survivors in connecting with other organizations outside the state and help them make arrangements to get there. Survivors coming to Covered House will be briefed on the house rules.