The Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota will be launching two new initiatives in Central Minnesota to help youth survivors of sex trafficking.

Central Minnesota Regional Navigator is led by Lutheran Social Service in Brainerd and is part of a new statewide initiative called Safe Harbor. This initiative dispatches regional navigators across Minnesota to connect youth survivors of sex to safe shelter and support.

Saving Grace is also a new and specialized foster care program for sex-trafficked youth under age 18 that offers safe shelter and a wide range of support, including an individualized wellness as well as basic needs. During the program launch event Lutheran Social Service will outline how the services will work. Local officials will also be on hand to offer their unique perspectives on this issue and participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The program will be held at Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota in Brainerd. Doors will open at 11:30 a.m. on Friday.