Created out of the Delaware Coalition for Health and Justice in 2010, the WISH program helps address the root causes of prostitution, which could range from childhood sexual abuse to drug addiction. Outreach workers for the WISH program, Women In Support of Health, reach over 100 prostitutes a month.
The program connects women to counseling and addiction treatment, helps them navigate the court system and serves as a support system. Brandywine Counseling and Community Services, Beautiful Gate Outreach Center, Survivors of Abuse in Recovery and the Delaware courts all play a role.
It is funded through a $300,000 federal grant and has reached thousands of women multiple times through the years since its inception, officials say.
Staff from Brandywine, for instance, drive around New Castle and Wilmington to meet the women where they are on the streets…