Power of Change: Taking a Stand against Human Trafficking

Power of Change Grant Targets Vulnerable Population.

Recently, Karen Erickson-Lee of Living By His Grace Ministries shared news of a significant grant secured for the purpose of educating communities about the alarming issues of human trafficking. The Power of Change grant, courtesy of the Rappahannock Electric Company, is a testament to the latter’s ongoing commitment to community well-being.

Erickson-Lee highlighted the invaluable contributions of Penny Kay Hoeflinger, a human trafficking survivor who penned the book “Children of the Poor” and developed workbooks like “Avoiding the Octopus.” These resources, designed for educators, families, and hospital administrators, aim to shed light on the signs of grooming and the vulnerability of potential victims. Tragically, many of these victims end up trapped in a world of exploitation, with some mistakenly incarcerated for supposed drug offenses.

Front Royal Mayor Lori Cockrell expressed her horror at the scale of the problem. She emphasized that human trafficking isn’t a distant issue restricted to major cities; it’s a local problem, and the implications extend across various age groups. Drawing attention to Interstate 81, she cited it as a hotspot for trafficking activities. This highway sees numerous college students, and their safety is a top concern.

Highlighting Rappahannock Electric’s role, Casey Hollins provided insights into the Power of Change initiative. Members of Rappahannock Electric can opt to round up their electric bills, with the excess funds being used for community betterment. Twice a year, this pooled money is distributed among deserving organizations. This program reflects the profound impact of collective contributions, even when each individual’s donation might be minimal.

Erickson-Lee’s ambitious plans for the grant funds involve distributing hundreds of “Avoiding the Octopus” workbooks across various counties. These books, available in English and Spanish, are customized for first responders to equip them with the tools they need to identify and assist victims. Collaboration with human trafficking survivor Hoeflinger is also on the cards to enhance community awareness and resilience.

As community members and organizations band together, the shared goal remains clear: safeguarding the vulnerable and illuminating the dark corners where exploitation occurs. Thanks to the Power of Change grant, the journey to a safer community has received a significant boost.