Safe haven for human trafficking victims

Human trafficking is one of the fastest growing criminal industries in the world, reeling in billions of dollars a year. One local non-profit is on a mission to provide a much needed safe haven for those victims in our area.
The ever expanding world wide web, the rise of internet and social media, a place where friends and family connect, but also where unsuspecting children and adults are lured, or taken against their will, into a life of unimaginable darkness, a world torn apart by sexual exploitation, drugs, and sexual abuse. “It’s happening in Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, and Long Beach.”
Human trafficking: and the I-10 runs straight through South Mississippi, one of the most used routes by human traffickers. President of Hadassah Ministries Crispin Bennett said, “The number of calls into the help centers have increased a whopping 30 percent and in the state of Mississippi currently, there’s no place for those trafficked victims to go to.”
But that could soon change thanks to Hadassah Ministries. The non-profit group is looking to raise money to provide a safe haven for those vulnerable victims. They say victims of human trafficking are best suited in a place tailored to their very specific needs. Executive Director of Hadassah Ministries Sharon Robbins said, “We’re going to be working on getting case managers for them to find out what their emotional and medical and psychological needs are then we will put them through training where we’re trying to find out what their niches are. Do they have a goal of going to college or finding a job of their dreams other than what they’ve been told that they’re only good for?”
The Hadassah Haven will provide a 12-24 month program for victims, including job training, but first they need funds to build or purchase a facility and they are looking to the community for help. They are inviting anyone who wants to join in the cause, donate, or just listen to discuss and spread awareness over a cup of tea. All proceeds go towards building the much needed safe haven. “I can’t imagine what it would be like if my daughter, you couldn’t imagine if your daughters were gone or if you knew they were caught up in this type of situation. You would want somebody who had enough love to reach out that could help. That’s what we’re here for,” said Bennett.
Tickets for the Princess Tea Party and Silent Auction are $30 for adults and $10 for children. The event takes place Saturday, May 13th from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the St. Martin Community Center. For more information or to purchase tickets send an email to chosenforthis787@gmail.com or call 228-380-4566.