Sex trafficking, a modern form of slavery, is growing at a rapid rate. Individuals who are trafficked can come from all walks of life with no socioeconomic boundaries, such as, religion, race, age, income, or education. Trafficking can be found in every community and it is happening our own town of Bloomington-Normal. The good news is, each of us can have an impact to help end sex trafficking and support organizations, such as the Catalyst ministries, in rescuing and restoring survivors.
Many who learn of sex trafficking are eager to help, but unsure of how to make an impact. Here are 5 ways to end sex trafficking and how you can help:
Know the Signs of Trafficking
Know How to Respond
Prevent Victimization
Spread Awareness
Partner with Catalyst Ministries in Rescuing and Restoring Survivors
1. Know the Signs of Trafficking
The U.S. Department of State lists several potential red flags you might notice when talking to someone:
Someone living with employer or living in poor conditions
You might be trying to speak to someone who is not “allowed” to speak to you alone, or their answers appear to be scripted or rehearsed.
Submissive or fearful
Unpaid or paid very little
2. Know How to Respond
If you suspect you are dealing with a victim of human trafficking, are there things you can do to help? Yes. Sometimes, ordinary citizens can be part of the solution by simply being aware. Recently, a human trafficking story came out of Peoria, IL, involving a driver for a local transportation company, noticing the behavior of his passenger. After gently asking her some questions, she allowed him to take her to the local police station, stating she was a victim of human trafficking.
3. Prevent Victimization
Protect the vulnerable, especially children. Learn how human traffickers often target and recruit youth. Learn how to recognize traffickers’ recruitment tactics. Encourage your local schools and college campuses to include human trafficking in their curriculum and to educate employees on the signs of trafficking and a protocol to report. Do the same with your workplace by reaching out to your Human Resources team.
4. Spread Awareness
Social media has provided an ever-growing platform for reach. When you come across sex trafficking stories or facts, such as the content from Catalyst Ministries, share them! There may be someone on your feed who isn’t aware. Empower your family members, church members, and co-workers around you to make a difference with you.
5. Partner with Catalyst Ministries in Rescuing and Restoring Survivors
Catalyst Ministries is one of the few organizations providing a residential program, along with holistic services for survivors. We call our residential program “Catalyst Farms”. Catalyst Farms helps women who are survivors of trafficking begin the process of healing and restoration through Jesus Christ. Below you will see some of the areas that we holistically care for our survivors.
Please read our previous blog post here: Helping Residents Heal Through Group Time at Catalyst Farms.
Catalyst Ministries holistic care that enables survivors to have a fresh start.
Physical
Survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation often arrive at Catalyst Farms with a host of needs. Often, they have not received the nutrition, sleep, medical care or even the basic clothes and warm coats needed. Residents are seen by trusted physicians, provided dental care, provided with wellness education, and gifted new clothing.
Emotional
Survivors of Human trafficking will often have PTSD and other mental and emotional challenges because of the complex and extreme abuse and trauma they've experienced. Catalyst provides trauma-informed therapists and regular counseling. Our Catalyst Farms care team works hard to help our residents process their experiences and help them know it is not their fault. We empower them to connect with them to re-connect with their true selves, hopes and dreams. The women realize for the first time that they are not alone, that they have a supportive team around them, which provides a significant emotional boost in helping them believe that they can be successful in their recovery.
Spiritual
Women coming out of the exploitation of sex trafficking can have confusion around the topic of God. Traffickers have exercised unhealthy authority and inhumane treatment over them which has left them also with scars related to their own worth. Residents have the opportunity to attend church, participate in Bible studies, spiritual formation classes and more. These women are treated with a genuine Christ-like love. Our belief at Catalyst is that women can experience Jesus daily as they interact with staff and volunteers who strive to be His hands and feet. A natural mentoring relationship emerges as a result, and women feel encouraged and cared for during their individual journeys.
Join Catalyst Ministries in Ending Sex Trafficking
If you have a desire to help, we have a spot for you! We would love for you to partner with us through the generous giving of your finances, time or talents. If you have a desire to learn more about sex trafficking and how you can join the fight to end sex trafficking, or if you are a victim or know a victim of sex trafficking, please reach out to Reach Catalyst Ministries at (309) 200-8930 or through our website at https://www.catalystministries.net.
—Crystal and Dave
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
– Proverbs 31:8 - 9