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The HALT Human Trafficking Fund has awarded its first round of grants to HTI Labs, the Imperial Police Department and the Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence. These grants will support initiatives to prevent and combat human trafficking in Nebraska. Established by the Nebraska banking industry and supported by other stakeholders, the HALT Human Trafficking Fund provides financial support to Nebraska organizations working to eliminate human trafficking in the state. Grant Recipients: HTI Labs HTI Labs will use its grant to help fund the expansion of their PAVE (Providing Avenues for Victim Empowerment) platform into more schools within Educational Service Unit #2, which serves Burt, Cuming, Dodge and Saunders counties. PAVE is a screening, assessment, and referral tool designed to help users identify and support trafficking victims. The grant will also fund technology training for school staff to implement PAVE effectively. Imperial Police Department The Imperial Police Department will enhance its anti-trafficking efforts through public education and increased law enforcement capabilities. With support from the Set Me Free Project, K-12 students and community members will receive training to recognize trafficking risks and warning signs. Additionally, the department will install surveillance cameras to assist in identifying and apprehending traffickers. The Imperial community has also contributed additional funding to support these efforts. Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence The Nebraska Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence will develop a survivor-centered, ethical and accurate messaging guide on how to talk about human trafficking. This resource will help both the media and the public better understand trafficking realities, address common misconceptions, and communicate effective prevention strategies. By increasing awareness and knowledge, the Coalition aims to improve how trafficking is recognized and reported. “These projects will make a tangible difference in preventing human trafficking in Nebraska,” said Richard Baier, president and CEO of the Nebraska Bankers Association. “The dedication of these organizations, combined with strong support of stakeholders, is essential to making Nebraska safer for everyone.” Information about the next grant cycle will be announced this summer. Organizations committed to combating human trafficking in Nebraska are encouraged to visit haltfund.org for more information on eligibility and the application process.
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