Who qualifies for an Empowerment Fund grant and who can apply? 

Grants are available to survivors of sex trafficking in Washington State who are ready to pursue their educational or career goals. Applicants no longer need to be referred by an advocate or support person and can now apply directly for a grant themselves. 

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What programs are eligible for Empowerment Fund Grants? 

The Empowerment Fund may be used for most educational programs. In the past, funded programs have included GED courses, Associates, Bachelors, Masters, PHDs, and a variety of career and technical courses. If you are unsure whether your desired program qualifies, you are still encouraged to apply. Empowerment Fund grants can only be used towards tuition, licensure exams, lab fees, and other non-material educational supports. At this time, we are unable to cover room and board, books, or school supplies. 

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Is there a limit to how much I can ask for? 

The maximum amount awarded per individual per year is $5000. If the requested funds will be used for multiple enrollment periods, a new tuition statement must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the due date. 

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There is no guarantee the total amount can be funded. In some cases, only a portion of the requested amount may be paid for. 

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When are applications due and how far in advance should I apply? 

Applications can be submitted at any time of the year until the funds expend. Please apply at least two months prior to your tuition due date. We require proof of enrollment within 6 months or funds will be released back into the pool for other applicants. 

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How long will it take between submitting my application and hearing if it has been approved or not? 

Within 30 days of receipt of the application, notice of approval/denial of grant will be emailed. We may contact you during the review process if there are any additional questions. 

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How many grants are awarded each year? 

This depends on how many applications we receive and how much is requested per application. Once our Empowerment Fund budget is exhausted, the application will be closed until the next calendar year. 

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What happens if I don’t complete the program I receive funding for? 

We ask that you alert us as soon as you realize you won’t be able to complete the program. If the issue is financial, we would like to be able to help you find resources so you can complete your course of study.  

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How are grants distributed? 

StolenYouth will directly pay the school or institution you are attending. 

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Why do I need a reference? 

As part of our review process, StolenYouth will reach out to your reference to help assess your personal motivation and career goals. This person could be an advocate, case worker, colleague, teacher, counselor, or non-familial member of your support system. Please choose someone who can speak knowledgeably about your work ethic, career goals, personal growth, and likelihood to complete this program/course of study.  

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We will not ask references about trafficking or trauma history, but please be mindful of how readily available information about StolenYouth's mission and the Empowerment Fund could inadvertently reveal information about an applicant's survivor status. We encourage applicants to be thoughtful and intentional about who they choose as a reference. 

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What is expected from grant recipients? 

Grant recipients are expected to work with StolenYouth to facilitate the payment process to the school or program. In order to complete payment, we will require a signed grant agreement, proof of enrollment, and a current tuition statement with your name and student ID. 

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Grant recipients will also be expected to complete two check-ins with the staff at StolenYouth, one mid-way through their program, and one upon completion of the program.