Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Awareness Matters

January is recognized nationwide as Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a designation first established in 2010 to bring sustained attention to a crime that often remains hidden in plain sight. 

Prevention begins with understanding who is most at risk and why. For communities in and around Fort Lauderdale, this means looking beyond headlines and focusing on the conditions that allow exploitation to take hold, especially during the critical transition into adulthood.

What Human Trafficking Looks Like in South Florida

Human trafficking does not happen somewhere else, to someone else. 

It happens in ordinary places and affects people living in our own communities, including across South Florida. Florida’s size, its tourism-driven economy, and the number of young people navigating housing and financial instability create real openings for exploitation when consistent support is missing.

Trafficking is also widely misunderstood. It rarely begins with force. More often, it starts with manipulation and dependence. Traffickers look for unmet needs, a place to stay, money, emotional connection, or reassurance. Offers that appear supportive can slowly turn into control. What feels like help at first can become coercion before a young person recognizes what is happening.

State reporting shows that children and adolescents remain at the center of many trafficking cases in Florida. In the 2024–25 fiscal year, the Florida Abuse Hotline received more than 2,200 trafficking-related reports involving approximately 1,600 minors. 

The vast majority of these cases were tied to commercial sexual exploitation. The Florida Department of Children and Families confirmed close to 600 of these reports, with the rise in verified cases reflecting improved frontline training, earlier recognition, and stronger collaboration across agencies rather than an actual increase in trafficking activity.

These numbers matter because they reveal both risk and progress. Child trafficking remains a serious issue, and earlier identification is improving. Prevention depends on recognizing vulnerability early and responding before exploitation becomes entrenched.

How Instability Raises Trafficking Risk for Youth

Young people aging out of foster care or experiencing housing insecurity often face overlapping challenges, including:

• Being expected to navigate adulthood quickly, often without stable housing or financial guidance

• Limited access to consistent adult support or mentorship

• A sudden loss of structure, routines, and trusted relationships

• Pressure to meet basic needs without a safety net

These risks are not the result of poor choices or lack of effort. They stem from unmet needs.

When young people are isolated, unsure where to turn, or focused on survival, offers that appear supportive can mask exploitation, especially during the transition from adolescence to independent adulthood.

Prevention Starts Long Before a Crisis

Human trafficking prevention is most effective when it begins early. 

Stable housing, access to education, life-skills training, and reliable adult relationships reduce the likelihood that a young person will be targeted or exploited. Prevention is not a single program or intervention. It is the result of sustained support over time.

FLITE Center focuses on these protective factors by helping young people move into adulthood with structure, guidance, and continuity. Long-term relationships and practical support do more than respond to harm. They help prevent it.

This approach aligns with what statewide data suggests. Improved identification and outcomes are linked to stronger coordination, better training, and consistent engagement with at-risk youth. 

Prevention works best when systems remain present, not when support ends abruptly.

How Communities Can Help Prevent Trafficking

Prevention is not only the responsibility of service providers or state agencies. 

Communities play a role by staying informed and engaged. Learning the less visible signs of trafficking, supporting organizations that work with vulnerable youth over the long term, and advocating for extended care and transition resources all make a difference.

In South Florida, where mobility and economic pressure are common, sustained community involvement helps reduce isolation. When young people know where to find support and who they can trust, the opportunity for exploitation shrinks.

Final Thoughts

Trafficking thrives where isolation exists. Prevention grows where connection, stability, and opportunity are present. Human Trafficking Prevention Month is an opportunity to move beyond awareness and focus on what truly protects young people as they build their futures.

When support continues beyond a fixed age, fewer young people are left to face adulthood alone, and outcomes change. 

You can be part of that prevention by donating or volunteering with FLITE Center, helping provide stable housing, guidance, and long-term support for young people transitioning out of care.

Building Resilience in Vulnerable Youth Through Education and Care

What does resilience really look like for a young person who has had to grow up without stability? 

For vulnerable youth, especially those aging out of foster care or facing housing insecurity, resilience is built with support, not expectation. It grows through stability, clear guidance, and adults who remain present. Education and care are not optional. They are the foundation. 

This belief shapes the work of FLITE Center, which helps young people move into adulthood with practical resources, consistent relationships, and long-term support.

Why Vulnerable Youth Face Greater Barriers to Resilience

For vulnerable youth, resilience is challenged by daily instability, not a lack of effort. The barriers are practical and cumulative:

• Interrupted education caused by frequent moves or housing changes

• Financial pressure without guidance on budgeting, credit, or employment

• Limited access to adults who can help navigate healthcare, school, or work systems

• Sudden loss of support when aging out of foster care
  
  

These challenges rarely ease at eighteen. They often intensify. Expectations rise just as safety nets disappear. 

Without continuity, one missed paycheck or setback can undo months of progress. This is why resilience must be supported through systems that reduce risk and provide stability during the transition to adulthood.

Education as a Tool for Stability and Independence

Education provides structure, direction, and a sense of forward movement. When learning is supported consistently, it becomes a stabilizing force that helps youth regain control over their future. 

Through education and workforce readiness support, FLITE Center helps young people rebuild momentum and connect effort to outcomes.

Education works best when it is flexible, goal-driven, and tied to real opportunities. Completing coursework, earning credentials, and developing job skills create tangible progress that strengthens resilience over time.

The Role of Care, Stability, and Consistent Support

Resilience is reinforced when youth know they are not navigating adulthood alone. 

Consistent care provides the trust and safety needed to apply new skills and recover from setbacks. FLITE Center’s support helps youth move forward by offering:

1. Case management to set goals, manage responsibilities, and address challenges early

2. Mentoring relationships that provide accountability and steady adult presence

3. Wellness and mental health support to reduce stress and improve coping

4. Connection to health and community resources that support daily stability

Together, these supports reduce crisis-driven decisions and help youth focus on long-term growth rather than short-term survival.

Why Education and Care Must Work Together

Education without stability is difficult to sustain. Care without access to opportunity limits progress. Resilience grows strongest when both work together.

FLITE Center’s integrated model combines housing support, education assistance, employment readiness, and case management so progress in one area reinforces the others. 

When setbacks occur, support remains in place. Youth learn that challenges are part of growth, and that asking for help is a skill that supports independence.

The Long-Term Impact on Youth and Communities

When vulnerable youth build resilience through education and care, the impact extends beyond individual success. Youth are more likely to secure housing, maintain employment, and manage their health. Communities benefit from reduced crisis intervention and stronger long-term outcomes.

Through consistent, coordinated support, FLITE Center helps young people move from instability to sustainable independence and lives built with direction.

Final Thoughts

Resilience does not emerge in isolation. It is built when vulnerable youth are given access to education, consistent care, and people who stay present through challenges and change. 

When these supports are in place, young people gain more than stability. They gain the ability to plan, adapt, and move forward with purpose.

Supporting this work means helping turn potential into progress. Learn more about FLITE Center’s programs, get involved, or contribute to the services that help vulnerable youth build resilience where it matters most: in real life, every day.

Mental Health Resources for Young Adults

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Yet, for many young adults, finding the right support can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or just need someone to talk to, knowing where to turn for mental health resources for young adults is the first step toward improving your well-being.

At FLITE Center, we are aware of the unique mental health challenges that young adults face, especially those transitioning into independence. That’s why we offer free and accessible mental health resources for young adults and free counseling for young adults in Fort Lauderdale to ensure you don’t have to go through these challenges alone.

The Mental Health Needs of Young Adults

Mental health plays a crucial role in every aspect of life, from relationships and education to work and personal growth. However, young adults—especially those between 18 and 30 years old—face unique challenges that can significantly impact their well-being. The transition into adulthood is often filled with uncertainty, financial stress, and the pressure to establish independence, making it a time when mental health support is more important than ever.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24 (NAMI). However, many young adults do not seek help due to stigma, lack of resources, or financial concerns. That’s why accessible services—like FLITE Center mental health services—are essential for young adults navigating this stage of life.

FLITE Center Mental Health Services

To support young adults on their journey to mental well-being, FLITE Center provides a range of mental health services that are free, accessible, and designed specifically for young adults in Fort Lauderdale.

Onsite Crisis Intervention

Mental health crises can happen unexpectedly, and having immediate access to professional support can make all the difference. FLITE Center mental health services provide onsite crisis intervention and free counseling for young adults in Fort Lauderdale, ensuring that people who are struggling receive the help they need right away.

What Does Crisis Intervention Include?

• Immediate mental health support for young adults experiencing extreme distress, anxiety attacks, or suicidal thoughts.

• A dedicated crisis interventionist who assesses the situation and provides support tailored to the individual’s needs.

• Connection to additional mental health resources such as long-term counseling, therapy, or psychiatric services.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, reaching out for help can be life-saving. FLITE Center ensures that no young adult has to face a mental health emergency alone.

Individual and Group Counseling

Counseling is one of the most effective ways to improve mental health, and at FLITE Center, we provide free counseling for young adults in Fort Lauderdale.

Individual Counseling

One-on-one therapy allows young adults to speak openly about their struggles in a confidential and supportive environment. Our trained mental health professionals help with:

• Managing anxiety, depression, and stress

• Processing trauma and past experiences

• Developing coping skills and emotional resilience

• Building confidence and self-awareness

Group Counseling & Psycho-Educational Workshops

In addition to individual therapy, FLITE Center also offers group counseling sessions and educational wellness fairs, where young adults can:

• Connect with others facing similar challenges

• Learn about mental health in a supportive, judgment-free space

• Participate in workshops on self-care, stress management, and personal growth

Many young adults find that group therapy helps them feel less alone in their struggles while learning from others’ experiences.

Partnership with Florida Health Partners

FLITE Center has partnered with Florida Health Partners to expand access to mental and physical healthcare services for young adults. Through this collaboration, FLITE Center provides:

• Primary care visits and wellness check-ups

• Telehealth mental health services for young adults who prefer virtual counseling or live outside the immediate area

• Preventative health screenings and education to help young adults maintain both mental and physical well-being

By working with trusted healthcare professionals, FLITE Center free counseling for young adults in Fort Lauderdale ensures that they have easy access to the care they need without financial barriers.

Creating a Supportive Community

A strong support system plays an important role in helping young adults overcome mental health challenges and build a stable future. At FLITE Center, we believe that community support is just as important as professional care—which is why we focus on creating safe spaces where young adults can connect, learn, and grow.

For many young adults, especially those who have aged out of foster care, feeling alone or disconnected can be one of the biggest obstacles to mental well-being. Studies show that having a strong social support system can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while improving self-confidence and resilience.

Having a supportive community can make a big difference in the lives of young adults. It reduces feelings of isolation by connecting them with others who truly understand what they’re going through. During tough times, this kind of support offers much-needed emotional encouragement. It also helps with problem-solving and decision-making, as hearing different perspectives and advice can open up new ways of thinking. Most importantly, being part of a community fosters a sense of belonging, which plays a key role in mental health and how you feel about yourself.

Recognizing this need, FLITE Center has developed programs that foster community, peer support, and mentorship to ensure that every young adult has a network to lean on.

Accessing FLITE Center’s Mental Health Resources

Knowing that help is available is the first step toward improving mental health. At FLITE Center, we make it as easy as possible for young adults to access free mental health services in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you need crisis intervention, ongoing counseling, or simply someone to talk to, we’re here to help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, here’s how you can access support at FLITE Center:

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your mental health is a lifelong journey, just as important as your physical health. At FLITE Center, we are dedicated to ensuring that young adults have access to free, accessible mental health resources to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or simply need a safe place to talk, our team is here to help. You don’t have to go through this alone. If you or someone you know needs mental health support in Fort Lauderdale, reach out to FLITE Center today. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Housing Assistance for Youth Who Have Aged Out of Foster Care

Turning 18 is an exciting milestone for many young adults, often marking the transition to greater independence, new opportunities, and personal growth. However, for youth aging out of the foster care system, this moment can bring uncertainty, especially when it comes to securing stable housing. Without a permanent support system in place, many of these young adults struggle to find a safe place to live, putting them at risk of homelessness and financial instability.

At FLITE Center, we are aware of these challenges and are committed to ensuring that no young adult has to navigate this transition alone. Our housing assistance for youth who have aged out of foster care provides the stability they need to build their future with confidence. Through programs like the Transitional Independent Living (TIL) program and other FLITE Center housing programs, we help young adults secure safe, affordable housing while offering support in education, employment, and life skills.

This blog will explore the housing challenges faced by youth aging out of foster care, the solutions FLITE Center provides, and how the community can get involved in making a difference. Whether you're a potential supporter, a landlord, or a young adult seeking assistance, FLITE Center is here to support young adults in achieving independence and building a successful future.

Recognizing the Housing Challenges for Aged-Out Foster Youth

For most young adults, the transition to independence comes with guidance and support from family—whether it’s help with rent, advice on budgeting, or a safety net in case of unexpected setbacks. Unfortunately, for youth aging out of the foster care system, this support is often nonexistent. Without a permanent home or reliable adult connections, many face extreme hardships when trying to secure stable housing.

A Growing Risk of Homelessness

In the United States, more than 25,000 young people age out of foster care every year. According to studies, 31% to 46% of these youth experience homelessness within 18 months of leaving the system. The situation is especially concerning in cities like Fort Lauderdale, where high housing costs and limited affordable options make it even harder for former foster youth to find a stable living situation.

Without a safety net, many of these young adults are forced to make difficult choices—couch surfing, staying in unsafe environments, or even sleeping on the streets. The lack of a stable home makes it harder for them to find employment, complete their education, or access essential healthcare services.

Barriers to Securing Housing

Even when former foster youth are determined to live independently, they often face roadblocks that make securing housing nearly impossible. Some of the most common challenges include:

• Financial Instability – Many aged-out foster youth have little to no savings, a limited credit history, and no co-signer for a lease. Without steady income, landlords are hesitant to rent to them.

• Lack of Rental History – Most landlords require previous rental references, which foster youth typically don’t have. This puts them at a disadvantage when competing for apartments.

• High Cost of Living – In places like Fort Lauderdale, affordable housing is scarce. Young adults without financial backing struggle to cover rent, security deposits, and utility costs.

• Limited Life Skills – Tasks like budgeting, managing bills, and maintaining a household can be overwhelming for youth who have not received proper guidance on independent living.

These barriers make it clear that housing assistance for youth who have aged out of foster care is not just helpful—it’s essential. Without structured support, many young adults fall through the cracks, unable to achieve stability.

FLITE Center's Housing Assistance Programs

At FLITE Center, we believe that every young adult deserves a safe place to call home. Our housing programs are designed to bridge the gap for foster youth aging out of the system, ensuring they have a stable foundation to build their future.

Transitional Independent Living (TIL) Program

The Transitional Independent Living (TIL) program is a key part of our housing support at FLITE Center. This program provides young adults with stable, affordable housing while they work towards self-sufficiency. It is not just about giving them a place to stay—it’s about equipping them with the skills and resources they need to live independently.

How the TIL Program Works

• Safe and Affordable Housing – Participants live in fully furnished apartments or shared housing arrangements with rent assistance, ensuring they have a secure place to stay.

• Case Management Support – Each participant works closely with a case manager who helps them set goals related to education, employment, financial management, and life skills.

• Career and Education Guidance – Residents receive job readiness training, resume assistance, and help enrolling in school or vocational programs.

• Life Skills Development – Workshops on budgeting, meal planning, and apartment maintenance help participants build confidence in managing their own household.

Many young adults in the TIL program have gone on to secure stable employment, complete their education, and transition into long-term housing. The program offers structure and accountability while allowing participants to experience independence in a supportive environment.

Emergency Landing Space Program

For some young adults, the need for housing is urgent. Youth who have recently become homeless or are at immediate risk of losing their housing can turn to our Emergency Landing Space Program.

What This Program Offers:

• Immediate Safe Housing – This program provides short-term accommodations for youth who have no other options.

• Crisis Support Services – Participants receive immediate case management to help them find a more permanent solution.

• Transition Planning – The goal is to quickly connect youth with long-term housing options through programs like TIL or partner organizations.

This program is crucial for preventing youth homelessness and ensuring that young adults don’t have to sleep on the streets or stay in unsafe environments.

Collaboration with Landlords and Housing Providers

FLITE Center recognizes that community partnerships are essential to expanding housing options for aged-out foster youth. That’s why we work directly with landlords, property managers, and housing organizations to create opportunities for youth to secure safe and affordable housing.

How FLITE Center Supports Landlords:

• Reliable Rent Payments – With financial assistance and case management support, landlords can feel confident that their tenants have the resources to stay on track.

• Ongoing Case Management – Youth receive regular check-ins and support, ensuring they meet their rental obligations.

• A Positive Community Impact – Landlords who participate in the program help reduce youth homelessness while filling vacancies with motivated tenants.

By building relationships with housing providers in Fort Lauderdale and beyond, FLITE Center is breaking down barriers and helping youth transition into long-term, stable living situations.

Extensive Support Services Complementing Housing

Stable housing is a critical first step for aged-out foster youth, but housing alone isn’t enough to set them up for long-term success. Without proper support, young adults may struggle with education, employment, health, and life skills—all essential for a successful transition to independence. That’s why FLITE Center offers comprehensive support services alongside its housing assistance for youth who have aged out of foster care.

Through a well-rounded approach, FLITE Center ensures that young adults receive the tools, guidance, and mentorship they need to thrive.

Education Support

For many aged-out foster youth, pursuing education is challenging. Some may have fallen behind in school due to frequent moves, while others may not have had the encouragement or resources to complete their education. FLITE Center provides:

• GED and High School Completion Support – Youth who didn’t complete high school receive one-on-one guidance, tutoring, and financial assistance to obtain their diploma or GED.

• College and Vocational Training Assistance – Case managers help youth apply for college, secure financial aid, and explore vocational training programs suited to their skills and interests.

• Academic Mentorship and Tutoring – FLITE Center connects young adults with mentors and tutors who provide educational support and motivation.

By removing barriers to education, FLITE Center helps young adults gain qualifications that open doors to stable employment and long-term independence.

Employment Services

Finding and maintaining employment is one of the biggest challenges for youth aging out of foster care. Many lack job experience, professional connections, and interview skills, making it difficult to compete in the job market.

FLITE Center’s employment services provide:

• Job Readiness Training – Workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and workplace etiquette prepare young adults to land and keep a job.

• Internship and Apprenticeship Opportunities – Partnerships with local businesses allow youth to gain hands-on experience in various fields.

• Career Coaching – Case managers help participants identify career paths, develop skills, and explore higher-paying opportunities.

These services empower young adults to build financial stability and break the cycle of poverty.

Health and Wellness Support

The transition to independence can be stressful, and without access to healthcare and mental health services, many aged-out foster youth struggle with anxiety, depression, and untreated medical conditions.

FLITE Center provides:

• Access to Mental Health Services – Counseling and therapy sessions help young adults navigate trauma, stress, and emotional challenges.

• Primary Healthcare Assistance – FLITE Center connects youth with doctors, dentists, and health clinics to ensure they receive regular check-ups and medical care.

• Wellness Programs – Nutrition workshops, fitness programs, and stress management courses promote healthy living habits.

By prioritizing mental and physical well-being, FLITE Center ensures that youth are not just surviving, but thriving in their new independence.

Resource Navigation

Beyond housing, education, and employment, FLITE Center helps youth navigate the complex system of public benefits and community resources. Many young adults aging out of foster care are unaware of the financial assistance and support programs available to them.

FLITE Center assists with:

• Applying for Public Benefits – Guidance on accessing food assistance, healthcare programs, and financial aid.

• Childcare and Parenting Support – For young parents, FLITE Center helps them find affordable childcare and parenting resources.

• Transportation Assistance – Help with public transportation, obtaining a driver’s license, and securing reliable transportation for work or school.

With the right support, aged-out foster youth can successfully navigate adulthood and avoid the risks of homelessness, unemployment, and financial hardship.

How the Community Can Get Involved

FLITE Center’s mission to support aged-out foster youth wouldn’t be possible without the support of the local community. There are many ways for individuals, businesses, and organizations to make a real difference in the lives of these young adults.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteers play a key role in helping FLITE Center provide guidance and mentorship to young adults. Some ways to get involved include:

• Mentorship Programs – Being a mentor provides aged-out foster youth with the support and encouragement they may have never had.

• Tutoring and Career Coaching – Volunteers can help youth improve academic skills, prepare for job interviews, and build professional networks.

• Life Skills Workshops – Share your expertise by teaching classes on budgeting, cooking, resume building, and home maintenance.

By donating time and expertise, volunteers create life-changing opportunities for young adults in need.

Donations and Fundraising

Financial contributions help FLITE Center continue providing housing assistance for youth who have aged out of foster care, job training, and essential support services. Donations go toward:

• Rent and Utility Assistance – Helping youth stay in safe, stable housing as they work toward independence.

• Scholarships and Educational Support – Funding for GED programs, college tuition, and vocational training.

• Emergency Relief Funds – Assistance for youth facing sudden financial hardships.

Ways to donate:

• One-time or recurring donations through the FLITE Center website.

• Organizing a fundraiser within your community or workplace.

• Sponsoring a youth’s housing or education expenses.

Even small contributions can change the course of a young adult’s life.

Partnership Opportunities for Businesses and Organizations

Local businesses and organizations can support FLITE Center by partnering to create housing, employment, and educational opportunities. Partnership opportunities include:

• Providing Internships or Jobs – Businesses can offer job placements, apprenticeships, or training programs.

• Becoming a Housing Partner – Landlords can rent units to youth participating in FLITE Center housing programs, with financial and case management support.

• Sponsoring Programs and Events – Organizations can contribute by funding educational workshops, career fairs, and support programs.

These partnerships not only benefit the youth but also strengthen the entire community by reducing homelessness, increasing employment, and empowering young adults.

Final Thoughts

At FLITE Center, we believe that every young adult deserves a safe place to call home, the opportunity to build a future, and a support system that empowers them to succeed.

Through housing programs, education and job training, health services, and community partnerships, we are helping aged-out foster youth break barriers and achieve independence.

But we can’t do it alone. Whether you choose to volunteer, donate, or partner with us, your support ensures that no young adult in Fort Lauderdale faces this journey alone.

If you want to learn more or get involved, contact us today. Together, we can make a difference.