

THE PROBLEM
28 million people are trafficked worldwide, with 6.3 million forced into commercial sexual exploitation.
(ILO, United Nations)
PREVALENCE IN MN
30%
of all calls from Minnesota to the National Human Trafficking Hotline came directly from victims or survivors.
(Human Trafficking Hotline)
HOUSING INSTABILITY
64%
of trafficking survivors reported experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity at some point during childhood.
(Polaris Project)
EARLY VICTIMIZATION
12yrs
Minnesota ranks third in child sexual exploitation, with an average age at which a victim is first sold is 12 years old.
(MN Dept. of Transportation)
OUR APPROACH
We take a holistic approach to supporting survivors and tackling the root causes of exploitation.
Our Work
Since 1996, Breaking Free has partnered with individuals, organizations and communities in the hardest-hit areas of the Twin Cities–and we won't stop until everyone is safe.
Identify at-risk individuals and victims
Educate & train frontline responders and the public
Facilitate trauma-informed care for survivors
Close the housing gap & access to help for survivors
Advocate for survivor-centered policies
For almost 30 years, Breaking Free has been a lifeline for survivors, providing essential care, support services and education with dignity and compassion. With a survivor-centered approach, we work alongside frontline responders and the public to prevent trafficking and create lasting, transformative change.â
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Learn more about who we are, what we stand for, and how we’re making an impact.
Programs in Action: Measurable Change
54
survivors, including 39 children, were supported in 2024 by our long-term housing program.
Zach Wolff
Housing Operations Manager


We've seen a paradigm shift in how trafficking cases are handled by police–seeing
survivors in need of support, not punishment.
Dr. Lori Quist
CEO, Breaking Free
Before Breaking Free, I was homeless and felt invisible. Now, I have a job, a safe place to live, and hope for the future.
Survivor
Breaking Free Client


267
In 2024 alone, we provided direct advocacy and support services to 267 survivors.
Ingrid DeChambeau
Regional Advocacy Manager