The County of Orange Social Services Agency (SSA) is pleased to announce the recognition of employees Juan Reynoso and Nicole Strattman by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) for their efforts in combating human trafficking among children, youth and families. The month of January commemorates Human Trafficking Awareness Month.
Across the state, CDSS selected less than 45 individuals to receive this inaugural award.
Juan Reynoso, a Social Services Supervisor II, was nominated by CDSS’ Refugee Programs Bureau for his dedication and support of the Trafficking and Crime Victims Assistance Program (TCVAP), assisting survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence and other serious crimes since 2013.
Nicole Strattman, a Senior Social Services Supervisor and SSA’s Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC) Program Coordinator, also serves as the agency liaison with the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF). Nicole helped implement specialized services for CSEC youth, including the launch of a dedicated resource and support center.
SSA Director Debra Baetz said, “People perceive human trafficking as an issue that happens somewhere else, but it happens in our own backyard. At SSA, we work closely with other county departments and community partners to serve survivors of exploitation, providing them with access to intensive services that address their unique needs and help them heal.” She continued, “SSA congratulates Juan and Nicole for their unwavering commitment to helping our most vulnerable populations.”
