This press release can be found on PR Newswire.
DALLAS, Aug. 25, 2020 — Irving-based foundation, The Jensen Project, announces the release of $3.1 million dollars in funding to seven nonprofits across the United States, meeting a critical need for support in the global movement to end violence against women. Recipients were selected through a competitive application process called GrantTank where they were given the opportunity to submit a range of innovative solutions that reduce barriers and create pathways for survivors of human trafficking.
“Through this process, we were exposed to countless organizations doing exceptional work.”
Janet Jensen
Human trafficking is not only a transnational crime, but also a domestic one that impacts each community in the U.S. Its victims represent every gender, race, age, and socio-economic status. As the crime increases and evolves with each generation, so must our response. With a vision for creating national change at a community level, The Jensen Project committed to invest $2 million in grants each year, distributed strategically to anti-trafficking nonprofits who are disrupting the cycles of vulnerability, violence, and victimization.
After surveying and monitoring the growing national response to trafficking, The Jensen Project identified two critical and emergent barriers facing individuals who have been exploited: a lack of safe housing options that provide healing and therapeutic environments; a lack of economic empowerment programs designed to create sustainable financial futures through access to dignified employment. As such, these two challenges were chosen as the central themes for GrantTank 2021 applicants, resulting in 55 applications from 23 states requesting over $20 million in funding. The number and quality of applicants challenged The Jensen Project to exceed their initial commitment of $2 million, selecting a total of seven organizations based on pre-determined criteria that spotlights best practices in trauma-informed care for a total of $3.1 million in funding. The Jensen Project is honored to collaborate with each inspiring program to create stronger outcomes for survivors nationwide.
“Through this process, we were exposed to countless organizations doing exceptional work. The seven that were selected as our GrantTank 2021 recipients rose to the top as innovative changemakers. We are excited for the opportunity to invest in them over the next few years, journey with them in creating change, and watch their impact grow.” – Janet Jensen
The organizations selected as GrantTank 2021 recipients are as follows:
- Annie Cannons – Walnut, CA
- Eden Centers for Hope and Healing, formerly known as Eden House – New Orleans, LA
- MISSSEY – Oakland, CA
- Rebecca Bender Initiative – Grants Pass, OR
- Reflection Ministries of Texas – Midland, TX
- REST – Seattle, WA
- Rethreaded – Jacksonville, FL
About The Jensen Project:
Founded by philanthropist, Janet Jensen, The Jensen Project exists to fuel strategic partnerships in the fight against sexual violence. We serve to learn what each organization does best and to help build partnerships amongst peers who may benefit from working together. We assess existing curriculums and capacities and may help provide resources that could help elevate the aftercare process within each organization. The Jensen Project is a 501(c)3 public charity. Donations fund programs like GrantTank. Learn more and give today at TheJensenProject.org
