Slim resources, high need challenge advocates for human-trafficking survivors
About three dozen minors in the St. Louis region have been rescued from sex trafficking so far this year, and a nationwide sting last week recovered 149 children, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. But during a public hearing in St. Louis, local agencies who help victims said they’re strapped for resources.
About a dozen people shared insights with Missouri’s newly-appointed Human Trafficking Task Force during the hearing in Brentwood on Tuesday. The Missouri legislature voted unanimously last session for the establish of the committee to suggest legislation that would help victims and reduce trafficking in the state.
“How did she get there? I think that always has to be the question. Not why are you doing this or why did you do that, but how did you get here,” said Christine McDonald of St. Charles, an advocate and author who was sold into sex trafficking as a teenager.
During her testimony, McDonald recommended training health providers to recognize trafficking victims, and to include people on the committee who have experienced exploitation.
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