Pou Brings Nearly $1 Million To Aid New Jersey Victims of Human Trafficking

November 10, 2026 Press Release PATERSON, NJ – Today Congresswoman Nellie Pou (D-NJ-09) announced $934,758 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Justice to enhance the identification, response, and existing systems for victims of human trafficking in Paterson and Passaic County. “Human trafficking is a horrific issue that touches far more families and individuals than we sometimes realize,” said Rep. Nellie Pou. “Behind every statistic is a human being who deserves to feel safe and who should be able to live without fear. Bringing this funding to St. Joseph’s Health and Covenant House New Jersey, is crucial to achieving the goal of making our communities safer.” The recipient of this grant is St. Joseph’s Health who, in partnership with Covenant House New Jersey, will provide immediate, on-site victim engagement, conduct comprehensive needs assessments, and facilitate direct connection to the state’s Human Trafficking Victim Services program. “As healthcare providers, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to recognize when someone may be experiencing human trafficking and to respond not only with compassion and dignity, but also to connect them to the appropriate resources and support. This grant will allow St. Joseph’s Health to strengthen education across our organization, create more consistent pathways for identification and referral, and deepen our partnership with Covenant House New Jersey. Most importantly, it will help ensure that vulnerable individuals in our community know that St. Joseph’s is a safe place where they can receive care, support and a connection to the services they need,” said Debbie Smith, Chief Nursing and Patient Care Officer at St. Joseph’s Health. This federal funding will integrate healthcare and proven community-based systems that will improve victim identification, access to care, and advance safety, recovery, and long-term stability for victims of human trafficking. As a member of the House Homeland Security Committee, Congresswoman Pou has championed public safety initiatives. This includes introducing the Combating International Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling Partnership Act, fighting to protect vital legislation like the Violence Against Women Act, and promoting federal resources that help survivors rebuild their lives. ###