Today, the Benedict Center Sisters Program hosted a Celebration Reception with Congresswoman Gwen Moore to kick off its new Community Funded Project. Rep. Moore helped secure a HUD Community Funded Project grant of $157,000 as part of the US Consolidated Appropriations Act to support the life-saving work of the Sisters Program to help women in the street-based sex trade in Milwaukee. The Sisters Program helps women in the street-based sex trade, including sex trafficking by connecting them to housing, treatment, and support services to enhance their health and the safety of the community. Through a street outreach team and at two drop-in centers women receive food, clothing, harm reduction services and safe respite during the day. In the coming year, the Sisters Program will provide essential services for over 225 women.
“The Benedict Center is a shining light to women in the street sex trade/sex trafficking, offering hope, compassionate staff, and the resources these women need to lead bright futures. It is my honor to help support their amazing work in Milwaukee through this community funding project grant, ensuring they can reach and uplift more vulnerable members of our community,” said Congresswoman Moore.
“Congresswoman Moore is a champion for women who are victimized by sexual and physical violence and sex trafficking. When she secured funding for the Sisters Program she prioritized and ensured hundreds of women in the street based sex trade will find hope and begin their healing journey,” said Jeanne Geraci, Executive Director of Benedict Center.
The Benedict Center showcased the Sisters Program northside drop-in center at the Innovation and Wellness Commons located at 1609 W. North Avenue. and Rep. Gwen Moore, Benedict Center leadership and partners, Sisters Program Participants, and the Milwaukee County Housing Division provided remarks.
The Benedict Center is Milwaukee’s leading advocate and service provider for women impacted by the criminal justice system. For more information: www.benedictcenter.org
