July 29, 2024- CourageLIVES, a pioneering program dedicated to supporting survivors of human trafficking and other extreme forms of violence, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Premier Cares Award and will receive a $100,000 cash prize from Premier, Inc. Sponsored by Premier and its alliance of more than 4,350 hospitals and health systems and approximately 300,000 other providers and organizations, the Premier Cares Award recognizes standalone community agencies and health organizations that are improving the lives of the medically underserved.
Founded in 2015 as a program of St. Andre Home in conjunction with the Good Shepherd Sisters, CourageLIVES was established as Maine’s first residential program and safe house for survivors of human trafficking. Over the years, it has expanded to offer comprehensive outreach support for those affected by human trafficking, exploitation, sexual/domestic violence and other abuse. This evolution led to the full transition to and adoption of a community-based service model in 2023, which allows CourageLIVES to serve more individuals and families with enhanced behavioral healthcare and related support services.