Safe Harbor: Supporting Youth Impacted by Sexual Exploitation

Minnesota passed Safe Harbor legislation in 2011, protecting youth under age 18 from criminal charges related to prostitution. This law recognizes young people impacted by sexual exploitation as survivors and connects them with care instead of punishment.

Safe Harbor operates within the Minnesota Department of Health, using a public health approach. In 2014, Minnesota launched the No Wrong Door model to expand access to services. This model includes:

  • Regional navigators

  • Safe housing and shelter options

  • Comprehensive trauma-informed services

  • Training and protocol development for professionals

Safe Harbor services are available across Minnesota to individuals age 24 and under.

How North Homes Supports Safe Harbor

North Homes Children and Family Services contributes to Safe Harbor efforts by:

  • Providing community-level education

  • Offering programming focused on prevention and early intervention

  • Supporting pathways to trauma-responsive care for youth

  • Residential treatment and independent living skills at our Winnie Sisu/Hawkins Home programs

Contact Information

Please call the closest office location to you, or fill out an initial service request form linked in the button below:

Grand Rapids (218) 999-9908

Deer River (844) 466-3720 Toll Free

Bemidji (218) 751-0282

Duluth (218) 733-3000