The National Center for Youth Law (NCYL) recently published an article about  efforts to protect children with histories of abuse and neglect from sexual exploitation. According to the NCYL, “As many as three out of four adult prostitutes have a history with child protective services or the foster care system.” California is considered to have the least comprehensive plan when it comes to preventive practices to address this type of abuse. The most at-risk population is youth in the child welfare  system, according to the NCYL. However, organizations in the Bay Area such as MISSEY (Motivating, Inspiring, Supporting & Serving Sexually Exploited Youth) have created a program in conjunction with, among others, Alameda County Department of Children and Family Services to meet this growing need.  MISSEY advocates aim to educate vulnerable youth about what human trafficking is and how they can better protect themselves. MISSEY will also offer seminars and trainings for youth who have been exploited and how they  can educate others about the warning signs of unhealthy relationships, and the importance of positive self-esteem and safe sexual health. For example, in Connecticut successful educational programs targeting youth at risk of sexual exploitation have been established. To learn more about the many preventive services programs available, click here to read the full NCYL article.  SAGE staff member Donna Sinar recently facilitated a continuing education class for current SFCASA volunteers. Read the article from the NCYL here.

For more information on SAGE visit their website.