New Task Force Generating Local Awareness of Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is an often-invisible issue, and a local group of citizens believes people in the Effingham area are uniquely situated to help spot, report, and rescue victims of human trafficking. The 57/70 Task Force is a newly established group of individuals working through The Chamber Foundation to “Educate the community to eliminate human trafficking in Effingham County, one person at a time."

The group is already reaching out via many avenues to fulfill their mission. They have hosted a series of informational roundtables (via Facebook live due to COVID-19) to share the perspective and knowledge of Effingham County Police Department, and several related nonprofits. They have also set up awareness-building billboards in our area. The group’s page on Facebook amplifies local and online events and resources that will help people educate themselves on the issue and help them to prevent or to report suspected trafficking, with a website coming at the end of the month.

57/70 Task Force has been actively working with local agencies like CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocate), SAFE (Stop Abuse for Everyone), Eden's Glory, SWAN (Stopping Woman Abuse Now), Effingham City Police Department, and Effingham Social Justice Group.

“Human trafficking is often an invisible crime, but we believe everyone can help spot the warning signs and help save victims from their traffickers. Effingham is a hub of Interstate traffic, where millions of people stop at restaurants, bars, and gas stations. There are ways that employees of these establishments, as well as members of the public, can read the signs of trafficking/kidnapping and safely provide victims a way to escape. If we can help save even one person from this awful crime, our efforts will be worth it.” says Amber, 57/70 Task Force member.

The 57/70 Task Force is actively seeking donors to support this cause, and money raised so far has gone to marketing, web design, education, and billboards in our area to raise awareness. The group wishes to thank donors so far, including Paul & Kay Koerner, Phil & Karla Koerner, and Carol & John Gapsis, and Ann Deters. Donations to support any or all of the worthy organizations listed here are encouraged, and anyone wishing to donate directly to 57/70 Task Force may visit: http://business.effinghamcountychamber.com/events/details/57-70-task-forcehuman-trafficking-awareness-9849

The 57/70 Task Force is a newly established group of individuals working through The Chamber Foundation. Their mission is to "Educate the community to eliminate human trafficking in Effingham County, one person at a time." Anyone interested may like or follow the 57/70 Task Force Facebook page to continue educating themselves and get involved in future initiatives and fundraising events. (https://www.facebook.com/5770TaskForce)

Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. Every year, millions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide. It can happen in any community and victims can be any age, race, gender, or nationality. Traffickers might use violence, manipulation, or false promises of well-paying jobs or romantic relationships to lure victims into trafficking situations. Language barriers, fear of their traffickers, and/or fear of law enforcement frequently keep victims from seeking help, making human trafficking a hidden crime.