January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month
According to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center, New York ranked fifth in the number of reported cases of human trafficking in 2015 and 2016 with nearly 300 reports each year. And yet, experts agree that most cases go unreported.
Human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation happens to women, men, boys, girls, and those who identify as LGBTQ. It happens to U. S. citizens as well as those who are foreign born. It occurs in big cities and small towns, in neighborhoods and homes.
The Child Advocacy Center of Niagara, a service of Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center is offering free training on “Human Trafficking and CSEC (Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children) 101” in Niagara Falls, North Tonawanda and Lockport.
The program will address myths that surround human trafficking and the red flags that suggest a child is at risk. The program will also provide information about local resources through the Safe Harbour Project and other organizations.
Sessions are open to anyone interested in protecting children and may be of particular interest to youth serving organizations, parents, educators, childcare providers and faith centers. The training will be led by Safe Harbour Project Coordinator Megan Genson.
Scheduled training dates are
January 24, 2 – 4 p.m., North Tonawanda Public Library
January 25, 10 a.m. – 12 noon, Golisano Center for Community Health, Niagara Falls
February 8, 10 a.m. – 12 noon, Lockport Public Library
Registration is required. Register online using the Classes & Events page at nfmmc.org or call the Child Advocacy Center of Niagara at (716) 285-0045.
