The CHANCE Program
Citrus Helping Adolescents Negatively impacted by Commercial Exploitation
Become a Foster Parent:
Specialized Therapeutic Foster Homes for
Victims of Human Trafficking & Commercial Exploitation
At Citrus Health Network, we are committed to providing support and services to victims of Human Trafficking and Commercial Sexual Exploitation (CSEC) in our community. If you're interested in making a difference in these children's lives, consider becoming a foster parent in our Specialized Therapeutic Foster Homes for CSEC victims.
What is CSEC and Who are the Victims?
CSEC is a form of child abuse where individuals engage in buying, trading, or selling sexual acts with a child under the age of 18. The victims of CSEC come from diverse backgrounds, including different cultures and socioeconomic statuses. Any child can become a victim, but those aged between 12 and 15 years, with emotional or physical needs, runaways, and those experiencing family troubles are particularly vulnerable.
Who exploits these children?
Predatory individuals, known as pimps, seek out vulnerable victims and manipulate them emotionally while exerting control through threats, violence, or drug addiction. These pimps often target children outside their family, but unfortunately, even family members may sexually exploit a child. "Johns" are the customers who solicit and purchase sexual acts from CSEC victims.
What We Offer: The CHANCE Program
Children in The CHANCE Program receive individualized clinical treatment primarily centered around Trauma-Focused Care, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, and motivational interviewing. They are assigned an individual therapist, family therapist, targeted case manager, life coach, and, when applicable, certified behavioral analyst services.
Extensive Support and Continuity of Care
We provide comprehensive services that follow the child, whether they are in our Specialized Therapeutic Foster Care, in the community, or in the Citrus Health Network Statewide Inpatient Psychiatric Program (SIPP). Our goal is to ensure continuity of care across different settings, providers, and levels of care.
How You Can Help:
Become a Foster Parent!
Specialized Therapeutic Foster Homes
Our Specialized Therapeutic Foster Homes are specifically trained to care for children who have been victims of CSEC. As a foster parent in this program, you will receive extensive training and dedicated support to effectively care for these children and help them heal from their traumatic experiences.
Know the Signs of Trafficking & Exploitation
Being aware of potential indicators of trafficking and exploitation can help protect vulnerable children. Some signs include a history of abuse, running away, sudden possession of expensive items, presence of an older boyfriend/girlfriend, substance use,
and withdrawal from previous activities.
If you think you know a child who may be a victim of Commercial Sexual Exploitation,
Call Dr. Gihan Omar
(305) 424-3031
