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When [Jane] began working with AAU's Human Trafficking Support team in May 2025, she was experiencing homelessness while entering recovery services. Her housing instability compounded the challenges of maintaining sobriety, placing her at significant risk of relapsing and continued instability.
To address her immediate needs, Jane was initially referred to transitional housing. Through coordinated advocacy, Jane secured permanent housing within 60 days of engaging with AAU services. Housing stability isn't just about a roof overhead, it's the foundation for recovery, employment, education, and hope.
This swift placement into stable housing provided the foundation Jane needed to focus on her recovery and personal development. Since securing housing, she has achieved notable milestones, including earning her ServeSafe and food handling certifications, which have expanded her employment opportunities. Building on this progress, Jane is now pursuing higher education in interior design, aligning her career goals with her personal interests and strengths.
Equally important, Jane has remained sober throughout her journey and has become an active member of a supportive recovery community. She continues to meet regularly with her case manager, fully engaging in available resources and programming. Her transformation has been described by her case manager as "inspiring," serving as a source of motivation for other clients navigating similar challenges.
Stories like Jane's are possible because of community support. In FY25, AAU distributed $1.173 million in rental assistance to trafficking survivors and refugees, providing the housing stability essential for stability and long-term success.
Support More Stories Like Jane's
Join us for UTAHGIVES 2026, Utah's biggest day of community giving! From now through April 30th, every donation to AAU is matched dollar-for-dollar up to $2,500.
Your $50 becomes $100. Your $100 becomes $200. Your investment supports the housing assistance, recovery services, case management, and comprehensive care that help survivors and refugees move from crisis to thriving.
Make your matched gift: https://www.utahgives.org/organization/aau-slc
Because when we give together, we grow together, and more survivors like Jane find the support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
