Anti-Human Trafficking Initiative
PORTLAND IS REPORTED TO BE A LEADING sex-trafficking hub in the United States. In a 2009 nationwide FBI sting operation to rescue trafficked minors, Oregon ranked second in victims recovered - 7 victims in a single eight-hour shift. There are few beds in the entire country equipped to meet the rehabilitation needs of the estimated 200,000 children needing rescue from this underground world. In November 2011 a 7-bed shelter opened in Portland, offering the first beds available in Oregon for this vulnerable population.
Mosaic desires to be part of bringing God’s justice and healing to those who are oppressed and exploited. Through partnering with and supporting key organizations, the Initiative seeks to aid in the prevention of human trafficking as well as intervention for those who are already being exploited.
Currently, the Initiative consists of a monthly Advocacy Group (see below) and several special projects throughout the year.
The Initiative is led by Stacy Bellavia. Contact Stacy for general information.
Ongoing Opportunities
Advocacy Group
Once a month, dates and times TBA
The Initiative’s Advocacy Group seeks to establish or find existing opportunities to actively engage the topic of modern-day slavery and sex trafficking in the Portland Metro Area. This occurs monthly through prayer, education, awareness-raising, advocacy or service.
Contact MAHTI to join the Advocacy Group and receive notifications about upcoming events/activities.
One-Time Opportunities
Supply Drive for Sexually Exploited Youth - UPDATE
In September, Mosaic’s Anti-Human Trafficking Initiative organized a supply drive to gather much needed supplies to love and care for sexually exploited boys and girls in our city. An overwhelming amount of hygiene and other supplies filled the empty bins in the lobby. The items have been distributed to grateful staff at the Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC). In response to your generosity, Esther Nelson of SARC responded, “This is so AWESOME!!! We are thrilled and are almost completely out of hygiene supplies, so this is a huge blessing! We are SO appreciative of this generosity! Thank you.”
Resources
The Initiative has compiled a resource list of organizations, films and books that address human trafficking. Click here to download.
