The first-of-its-kind program in New York provides a missing but crucial next step toward a life of independence.
September 2025, New York, NY — LifeWay Network, a New York based nonprofit providing safe housing for trafficking survivors and education to prevent trafficking, has announced the opening of a new Semi-Independent Transitional Safe House in New York City.
The program is the first of its kind in the state dedicated specifically to helping trafficking survivors bridge the gap between intensive support and independent living, filling a critical need in the path to independence for women survivors.
The home will welcome its first residents in September, following a ribbon cutting on June 26.
LifeWay Network’s Semi-Independent Transitional Safe Housing program will offer a supportive and minimally structured environment that empowers women survivors to move forward at a stage when they’re vulnerable to re-trafficking.
“This is a critical step in our mission to accompany women survivors into lives of independence,” said LifeWay Network Executive Director Ali Boak.
“Safe housing is the foundation allowing a survivor to secure employment, gain needed job and life skills, stabilize her finances and ultimately establish a home of her own.”
Fostering self-sufficiency
Situated in a confidential residential setting in New York City, the program offers a safe living space and nurturing community for as many as 10 women. Each resident is provided with a single, double or triple bedroom, basic household supplies and basic food staples
Residents have access to on-site support staff each day; on-call staff offer support after hours. They can provide career, educational and housing assistance and referrals to other services.
This model aims to bridge the gap between the intensive support provided by LifeWay Network’s Comprehensive Safe Housing program and complete independence, encouraging self-sufficiency with a stay of as long as 24 months.
Creating a safe haven
The home, leased to LifeWay Network by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary since 2011, underwent $54,400 in renovations. Updates include repairing leaks and water damage; kitchen and bathroom renovations; new paint, bedding and furniture and refinished floors in the bedrooms; a new “bistro” space with a TV and mini-kitchen; and two art spaces. The Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary contributed $20,000 toward the renovation costs.
Celebrating community
The June ribbon cutting included a ceremony and light snacks for board members, donors, former residents, staff and community advocates.
LifeWay Network is deeply grateful to the many donors who made this new safe home possible, including EJ Camp and Laura Weil, Roslyn Stone Pollack and Zero Hour Health, James Best, Wendy Mele (project designer), Janine Luke, Max Mosolino, Anton Kola, Tammi Rainford, Tina Dover, Jennifer Haviland, and Sisters WorldWide Rising.
LifeWay Network extends deep gratitude to these partners for helping create a safe, empowering space for survivors ready to take the next step.