Like most people, we at times have a tendency to not pay attention to the un-pleasantries going on around us. Unless of course it hits closer to home.

While we were all out celebrating this past St. Patrick’s Day I was shocked to find out my friend’s daughter had been abducted and went missing for two days.  Fortunately, she was found “ALIVE” by the border patrol.  Unfortunately, they did not catch her assailants.  Things with her right now are sketchy at best and there are not many details.  I’m sure she’s shell shocked and the reality is she will probably never be the same.

Things could have turned out a lot differently.  I’m aware of that and the reality is that in some cases it does turn out tragically.

I obtained information from the Florida Coalition against Human Trafficking and here are some facts:

  • Did you know that Human Trafficking is only second to drug trading in this county?
  • Did you know Florida has been indicated as one of the “TOP SPOTS” for Human Trafficking?
  • Did you also know that Florida also has been recognized as having one of the highest numbers of Human Trafficking incidences in the United States?
  • Children are the number one targets and the age group ranges from 10-17. This is mostly dominated by homeless children or run a ways.
  • Although 80% are women, Human Trafficking doesn’t discriminate. It includes men, women and children who are exploited for sex and/or include slavery.
  • Did you know that a “throw away” refers to a homeless child being thrown out or a child that has nowhere else to go?

Coalitions have been started around the world due to the Florida Coalition Identifying possible trafficking in other countries like Grenada, Argentina, the Caribbean, Eastern Europe and Guatemala.

The Huffington Post reported:  The National Center on families homeless in the U.S. calculated nearly 2.5 million children were homeless at some point in 2013.

The National Runaway Safe line estimates nearly 1.6-2.8 million youths runs away each year and that includes homeless children.

The information on this topic is endless and unbelievable at times.

One way you can HELP is to join the Southwest Florida Regional Human Trafficking Coalition Event on April 9, 2016.Taste of Freedom 04-09-2016

http://swflhumantrafficking.org/

If you are in the area, and would like to join us Saturday, April 9, 2016 from 6 – 9:30 pm at Scanlon Lexus of Fort Myers (14200 S. Tamiami Trail), click here to register to attend.