Earlier in August, GBMC’s Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence (SAFE & DV) Program was named one of 18 winners in the first phase of a $1.8 million national competition focused on preventing human trafficking. This innovation challenge, which includes a $50,000 award, recognizes existing programs that effectively combat human trafficking and improve health outcomes for women and girls.
We are honored to receive this federal award, which highlights the vital work of our SAFE & DV team in supporting survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. This recognition underscores GBMC's role as a national leader in trauma-informed care.
The SAFE &DV Program is the only provider in Baltimore and Harford counties offering medical-forensic sexual assault treatment for both adults and children under 12. Our specialized team, including registered forensic nurse examiners and advocates, provides essential care in a confidential, non-judgmental environment at no cost to patients.
This award also reflects the strength of our partnerships with local law enforcement, Child Protective Services, the State’s Attorney’s office, and other organizations. Together, we ensure that survivors receive comprehensive care, from immediate medical attention to long-term support.
Over the years, the SAFE & DV Program has made significant strides, including integrating the Child Protection Program and expanding community outreach. The team also received national recognition for their expertise in trauma-informed care. Looking ahead, the program plans to continue enhancing human trafficking awareness, continue training law enforcement, and host a regional symposium. Thank you to the team who makes all of this important work possible, especially program director Laura Clary, MSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A, SANE-P; SAFE Nurse and human trafficking liaison Ashley McAree, MSN, RN, FNE-A/P, SANE-A; SAFE Patient Interventionalist Kelly Truax; and director of child maltreatment Sarah Perl, CRNP, (among others) for their continued advocacy.
According to the White House’s National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking, women and girls are disproportionately impacted by human trafficking, which undermines their safety, health, and well-being. Data from the National Human Trafficking Hotline shows that women and girls comprised approximately 84% of individuals in trafficking situations and 50% of those in labor trafficking situations reported to the Hotline in 2021. Women and girls who are sexually abused are more likely to experience physical abuse, sexual re-victimization, and intimate partner violence later in life. With 1 in 3 women experiencing intimate partner and/or domestic violence at some point, they are at high risk for human trafficking and other forms of abuse.
GBMC’s SAFE & DV Program also receives notable community support, particularly during our annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event. The 2024 event brought together more than 500 participants and raised over $185,000 for the program. It was humbling to see such a strong turnout, with so many people recognizing the critical need for this program in our community.
We were honored to have Maryland’s First Lady, Dawn Moore, serve as our honorary chair for Walk a Mile. The support from figures like Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski and Ravens Coach John Harbaugh further highlights the widespread community backing for our initiatives.
We look forward to celebrating a significant milestone next year: the 10th anniversary of Walk a Mile in April 2025. Stay tuned for exciting details as we approach the event.
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