"We exist to aid in the elimination of human trafficking by educating the community and working directly with suspected trafficked persons."
The STOP-IT Program provide direct and immediate services to adult and minor victims of sex and labor trafficking, domestic and foreign nationals. We are currently serving over 40 trafficked individuals. Here is one of their stories:
Lydia is a very bright 17 year old female who comes from a loving single parent home. This young woman had always done well in school, but like many teens she went through a rebellious stage in her life. She befriended some people who did not have her best interest in mind. One of these friendships turned into a dating relationship. Lydia's boyfriend swept her off her feet. He told her that he wanted to be with her forever, that he loved her, that he would take care of her always. Lydia's boyfriend then took advantage of her saying that she needed to help them achieve their dreams of a life together. He persuaded her to engage in acts of prostitution. He became more and more conrolling and Lydia saw less and less of the money she earned.
Eventually, Lydia and her boyfriend were picked up by the police. The police called The Salvation Army STOP-IT Program to come to the police station and meet with this underage victim. Through the comprehensive services provided by STOP-IT and its collaborative community partners, Lydia has completed her high school education, started college classes, attended job training, and has engaged in counseling. A quote from a letter she wrote to the program states, “I’m just blessed and very thankful I was introduced to the program and proud to say that these opportunities have helped me grow and appreciate things in life more.”
Your gift this holiday season helps us serve victims of trafficking all year long.
Thank you and God Bless You!
The STOP-IT Initiative Against Human Trafficking (www.sa-stopit.org)
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If you suspect trafficking, call our TOLL FREE/24-HOUR Hotline 1-877-606-3158