VENTURA COUNTY, California — Suamhirs Piraino-Guzman, a victim of trafficking, has voiced concerns over the lack of support for male trafficking survivors. In response, Interface Children & Family Services has launched a groundbreaking initiative with the opening of a men’s shelter aimed at filling this crucial gap in support services within Ventura County.
The men’s shelter, which opened its doors in February 26, 2024, operates as a voluntary program catering specifically to single adult men or male-identifying individuals who are victims of human trafficking. With a stay ranging from six to nine months, the shelter aims to provide a haven and comprehensive support for survivors.
While some shelters addressing trafficking are gender-inclusive, shelters tailored specifically for men remain a rarity across the United States.
Read more: Finding Justice and Healing with the Help of a Sex Trafficking Lawyer
Catherine Pedrosa, Director of Interface’s Human Trafficking Prevention and Intervention program, highlighted the challenges faced by male victims in the past. Due to limited resources, Interface would often refer male victims in need of housing to general homeless shelters, which lacked the specialized resources necessary to effectively support trafficking survivors.
The new men’s shelter represents a significant shift in approach. Equipped with resources for basic needs, education enrollment, employment readiness, advocacy, legal services, mental health and trauma treatment, and substance abuse treatment, the shelter aims to provide holistic support tailored to the unique needs of male trafficking survivors.
Evelyn Guillen, program manager of the Ventura County Human Trafficking Task Force, also emphasized the historical oversight of male survivors. “As more survivors are identifying or as we are identifying them, we’re seeing the need. It’s always been there,” she said. “The men’s shelter can provide services to anyone that is being actively trafficked or at risk of trafficking“.
