CHNJ’s Leadership in the Fight Against Human Trafficking
Our main work is right here in New Jersey, where Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) served more than 1,800 youth experiencing homelessness—providing shelter, safety, and opportunity. However, we are also having a global impact in our work with victims of human trafficking through our research, training and advocacy, as well as our direct work with victims as the statewide provider for victim services since 2020.
In the past year alone, CHNJ directly supported 227 trafficking survivors, a notable increase from the prior year, reflecting our growing ability to respond to the needs of victims. These victim services include safe housing, counseling, and legal support.
Through our Covenant House Action & Research Tank (CHART), we also conduct research and develop evidence-based strategies to create long-term solutions for survivors and vulnerable youth.
One of our most impactful contributions is the validation of the Quick Youth Indicators for Trafficking (QYIT), a scientifically rigorous screening tool that has been:
- Recognized in the United Nations Millennium Development Goals framework.
- Cited more than 20,000 times worldwide as a leading method for identifying victims.
- Adopted globally to improve how survivors are recognized and supported.
Our impact extends beyond direct care:
- 1,900+ frontline professionals trained in FY24—including medical providers, who are often in a unique position to identify victims.
- Specialized training for hospital staff and other critical groups to enhance community-wide capacity to recognize trafficking indicators.
- Presentations to the U.S. State Department on forced criminality.
- Publication of groundbreaking research on the intersection of youth homelessness, trafficking, and disabilities.
In this video, Covenant House New Jersey CEO Julia Einbond and former CEO Jim White share the origins of CHNJ’s groundbreaking human trafficking research—and how it has grown into a global force for change.
What began as our mission to protect and serve youth in New Jersey is now influencing national and international strategies to combat human trafficking. This is made possible by our partners—and by supporters like you.
Report or Get Help
If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please call the New Jersey Human Trafficking Hotline: 📞 855-NJHT-TIP (855-654-8847) .
To Make a referral for Human Trafficking Victim Services please call us at: 📞 862-240-2453 .
To learn more about the work of Covenant House New Jersey in helping victims of human trafficking, click here.
