Our History
Safe Exit Initiative (SEI) emerged as the evolution of Living In Freedom Together (LIFT), Inc. Founded in 2014, LIFT initially focused on providing direct services and crisis intervention resources to individuals in the sex trade. As LIFT grew and our programming expanded, it became evident that a more comprehensive and strategic approach was necessary to achieve our goals.
In response to the evolving needs and challenges, in 2023 LIFT transitioned into the Safe Exit Initiative (SEI). With this transition, SEI is poised to carry forward the impactful work initiated by LIFT, with a renewed dedication to ending the sex trade by addressing the systemic causes of exploitation which include racial and gender inequities, most prominently.
Our History
The establishment of the Drop-In Center in 2014 marked the beginning of our journey, offering a safe and welcoming space for those seeking refuge and resources, providing immediate support and crisis intervention to individuals in the sex trade.
In 2019, we expanded our reach and impact with the establishment of Jana's Place. This initiative was a significant step forward, allowing us to broaden our direct services and provide more comprehensive support to individuals experiencing the intersection of substance use disorder (SUD), mental health disorders (MHD), and exploitation in the sex trade.
The year 2020 brought the launch of HARBOR, a vital component of our commitment to creating a safer environment. HARBOR is the expansion of the Drop-In Center with extended operating hours, access to onsite medical care, case management services, and a mobile outreach van, along with all the traditional supports of the original Drop-In Center, offering resources and assistance to those navigating the challenging journey of exiting the sex trade.
Recognizing the legal barriers faced by individuals in the sex trade, we established the Legal Clinic in 2022. This initiative aimed to provide pro bono legal services as a barrier reduction tool for people wishing to leave the sex trade. Arrests for prostitution-related charges create a criminal record that bars people from gainful employment opportunities, access to safe and stable housing, and educational resources like school loans. The inability to achieve these things act as barriers to exiting the sex trade in a sustainable way.
Building on our commitment to systemic change, SEI introduced the Policy & Research Practice in 2024. This initiative marked a strategic move towards addressing the root causes of exploitation through policy advocacy and research. By influencing change at the systemic level, SEI aims to create a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by the sex trade.
In our ongoing quest to make a meaningful impact, SEI has expanded its reach into the Greater Washington DC/Baltimore area. This expansion allows us to extend our services and advocacy efforts to a wider community, bringing hope and transformation to even more lives.
Join Us in Our Journey
SEI is more than an organization – it's a commitment to empowerment, transformation, and the pursuit of a world free from the harms of the sex trade. Join us in our journey as we continue to evolve, expand, and make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Together, we can build a future where everyone can live in freedom, safety, and dignity.