Guerrero said the victims are mostly minors.
“It is very alarming,” she said, referring to the 50 cases of human trafficking on Saipan.
There are few victims of sexual assault, she said, but the reported cases should not be disregarded by the government.
Karidat, she said, provides advocacy service to the victims such as crisis counseling, case management and assistance with the filing of the temporary restraining order.
She said the House of Hope, which was founded in 2001, is the only center in the CNMI that shelters victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking.
According to Guerrero, the federal government is expected to provide funds for the teen center project to boost Karidat’s youth program.
She said they have already submitted the application for a $21,882 grant.
The teen center, Guerrero added, aims to help the youth develop self-esteem, self-reliance and self-confidence.
“The programs and activities it provides during school days and in the summer include counseling, tutoring, canoeing, swimming, ukulele, arts and crafts, computer class, golf, canvas painting and sports activities.
The teen center, or the House of Manhoben is open to children from five to nine years old for an hour of tutoring services.
It is also open to children 10 to 18 years who want to participate in the center’s various programs.
