Now Offering Hep-C Testing for Human Trafficking Survivors April 27, 2026
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center & The Centers Expand Medical Services to Offer Hepatitis C Testing for Human Trafficking Survivors
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (CRCC) and The Centers are proud to announce an expansion of services within the Medical Suite at CRCC’s Human Trafficking Drop-In Center. Through this continued partnership, Hepatitis C (Hep C) testing will now be available on-site, providing critical, low-barrier healthcare access for survivors of human trafficking.
This new offering builds on the collaborative Medical Suite model, designed to meet survivors where they are by integrating trauma-informed medical care into a safe, trusted environment. Survivors accessing the Drop-In Center can now receive Hep C testing as part of a holistic approach to care—removing barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking or receiving essential health services.
Hepatitis C is a serious but treatable condition that can disproportionately impact individuals who have experienced trafficking and exploitation. By offering testing directly within the Drop-In Center, CRCC and The Centers are taking another step toward ensuring survivors have access to early detection, treatment pathways, and long-term health support.
Importantly, there are no sobriety requirements to access testing or treatment. This approach recognizes that traditional barriers such as requiring abstinence can prevent individuals from seeking care. By removing those barriers, this initiative ensures that survivors can access services when they are ready, in a way that respects their autonomy and lived experience.
“This expansion reflects what it truly means to meet survivors where they are,” said Nicole McKinney-Johnson, President & CEO of Cleveland Rape Crisis Center. “By bringing Hepatitis C testing into a space that is already grounded in trust, dignity, and trauma-informed care, we are reducing barriers and expanding access in a way that honors each survivor’s experience. This is about health, healing, and ensuring that no one is left without the care they deserve.”
The Medical Suite, developed in partnership with The Centers, represents an innovative approach to survivor care—embedding accessible medical services within a supportive, survivor-centered setting.
“The Centers is proud to continue this partnership with Cleveland Rape Crisis Center to expand access to essential healthcare services,” said Eric L. Morse, President and CEO of The Centers. “Offering Hepatitis C testing within the Drop-In Center allows us to connect with individuals who may not otherwise seek care, providing an opportunity for early intervention and improved health outcomes. This is what community-based, integrated care should look like.”
The addition of Hep C testing reflects CRCC’s broader commitment to addressing the complex and intersecting needs of human trafficking survivors. By co-locating services and reducing systemic barriers, the organization continues to advance innovative, survivor-centered solutions.
“This is a meaningful step forward in how we support survivors of human trafficking,” said Jessica Martin, Chief Program Officer at Cleveland Rape Crisis Center. “Access to healthcare is a critical part of healing, and by offering testing in a space that feels safe and accessible, we are helping to remove fear and uncertainty from the process. Our goal is always to create pathways to care that are compassionate, responsive, and rooted in the realities survivors face.”
The Hepatitis C testing initiative is now available at CRCC’s Human Trafficking Drop-In Center. Survivors can access services confidentially and at no cost.
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About Cleveland Rape Crisis Center
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center supports survivors of sexual violence through free, trauma-informed services including advocacy, counseling, and prevention education. Serving Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, and Ashtabula counties, CRCC is committed to promoting healing, justice, and prevention.
About The Centers
By healing, teaching, and inspiring individuals and families to reach their full potential, The Centers offers an integrated model coordinates health and wellness services, including primary care, behavioral health care, addiction services, HIV treatment, in-house pharmacies, and dental. The Centers also provides family support programs, including early childhood development, career training, and job placement. This continuum of care includes Youth Residential services at The Centers’ H.O.P.E. Campus®, which offers safe, trauma-responsive support for youth. The Centers is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit organizations in Northeast Ohio, serving more than 20,000 people annually in our community. Visit TheCentersOhio.org to learn more.