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" You either have to be part of the solution, or you're going to be part of the problem."

--Eldridge Cleaver

At Shelter, we've seen first-hand the devastation from Commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) because we serve the most vulnerable youth and the ones predators target; those who are homeless, in the child welfare system, and those fighting for survival. We've written posts about the epidemic and that the majority of perpetrators are people the victims know. But the frontline social service agencies alone can't repel the criminals; our children need you, your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and everyone else in our community to do your part.  

CSEC isn't someone else's problem. It's been called the crime that is hidden in plain sight. Trafficking children is a crime so horrific and frightening we cover our eyes and go into the "what we can't see can't hurt us" mode. It's not much of a strategy, and it isn't working. Human trafficking is the fastest-growing crime in the world and has already infected our own community.

Can you really make a difference? Absolutely, and you can start right now.

Know the Facts: No one can be a part of the solution without understanding the problem. There are numerous reliable sites online providing all the information you need. You might begin with the Child Welfare Information Gateway that offers a list of the significant anti-trafficking organizations and their websites. The Polaris Project is especially helpful.

Be Alert: If you know the signs of a heart attack, you may save someone's life, and if you know the signs of trafficking, both in-person and online, you may save the life of a child. Shared Hope International has a list of typical signs you may see in person. Social media is a major tool for child traffickers, and Internet Safety 101 is a good source of information.

Take Action: To continue reading, click here and learn Four Ways You can Take Action Today 

Thanks To Our Community Partners

As we start the new year, we will acknowledge the grants we receive each month from corporations, foundations, and government agencies. We are proud to partner with those who support our community and have such an impact on children and families in need Since our last CONNECTIONS, we received the following grants and gifts:

• Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois through their Healthy Kids and Healthy Families Program – for the Clinical Program
• The Hanover Township Mental Health Board – for new software and our Clinical Program
• Village Treasure House – for the Clinical Program
• Hitachi Hi-Tech America – for the Family Crisis Fund
• Andrew and Alice Fischer Charitable Trust – for the Clinical Program
• LeasePlan – an in-kind donation of a car for our programs

If you share our vision that all children grow up in safe and nurturing homes, please support us today. 

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