SIS expands trafficking resources

From education and training to support and empowerment, Sisters in Shelter continues to serve both the public and survivors of human trafficking. Founded in 2014, Sisters in Shelter is dedicated to growing awareness of the issues surrounding human trafficking and providing a safe house for women who have suffered and survived the evils of the trade. While the organization temporarily transitioned to include domestic violence in its scope of services, SIS returned to its original focus in 2022. Jennifer Kin was hired as president in July 2023 to lead that charge. Kin, a former full-time deputy with the Seneca County Sheriff's Office who now serves in a reserve capacity, utilized her law enforcement background to grow a "wide network" of resources for the organization. Upon taking the helm, Kin decided she first needed to "get our name out there" and determine the best way to be a resource in the general community. Building on SIS's original training program, "Human Trafficking 101," she helped create additional teaching modules to serve different audiences. SIS now offers training specific to law enforcement, emergency rooms, first responders and real estate professionals. The group also offers education on sextortion and trauma-informed care. For example, Kin said SIS recently hosted a training session designed for real estate professionals, which highlighted red flags to look for when visiting properties. Traffickers have begun to migrate away from "traditional" hot spots and are venturing into more family-oriented neighborhoods, she said. Kin noted that realtors should be alert to the constant flip of a property, the presence of abnormal locks and mattresses at a home, or signs of squatting. In addition to professional training, SIS is developing a hands-on activity that provides scenario-based learning that "puts you in the role of an at-risk female." Kin noted that the public should be aware that human trafficking "is an expensive crime" that targets people from all segments of society. "It's not just people who are down and out on their luck," Kin said. New Threats Kin also reflected on the abuse of technology and AI advancements in the human trafficking world. Social media has created an easy doorway to victims, she said, and AI is making that path increasingly dangerous. AI's ability to manipulate photos, create videos and fabricate complete conversations is a frightening development, Kin said. She noted that monitoring a child's online presence is essential, and recommended apps like BARK to help parents stay aware of cell phone use. Trauma-Informed Care As a police officer, Kin said she has always been in the role of sexual assault investigator, but working for Sisters in Shelter has "been eye-opening." Working with survivors has helped her view the issue through a trauma-informed lens. "I needed to see things from a victim standpoint," she said, "and that often means that simply surviving one more day is an accomplishment." Since Kin joined the organization, stays at the safe house have lasted from one day to six months, with an average stay of two months. Kin described the time as a "sabbatical" where women work toward individual goals and "being a well woman." Women learn communication skills, how to set boundaries and receive literacy training and GED classes. Kin and SIS Case Manager Adriana Zepeda use resources from the One Circle Foundation to help each survivor move forward. Community Support As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, SIS is dependent on grant funding, donations and fundraising. In late 2025, SIS received a $50,000 National Machinery grant and a $50,000 grant from the Greater Toledo Community Foundation Sylvanian Franciscan Foundation Fund. The group was also the beneficiary of the Tiffin Bar Crawl, which raised more than $25,000, and a $10,373 gift from the PNC-Meshech Frost Trust. Kin noted that while grants often specify where funding can be allocated, open donations that help cover personnel salaries are extremely helpful. The organization also relies on its annual "Celebrating Freedom" fundraiser. This year, the event will take place April 16 at The Chandelier. Brittany Figlar, a human trafficking survivor, will be the keynote speaker. Tickets are $50, and a maximum of 250 will be available. In addition to financial support, volunteers are needed to staff the safe house, which is monitored 24/7. Anyone interested in becoming involved can contact Kin at director@sistersinshelter.com. More information can be found at sistersinshelter.com or by calling 567-205-8771.