Event puts spotlight on impacts of human trafficking

A local group used International Women’s day to put a spotlight on human trafficking.

Hustlers for Humanity’s event ‘Be Bold for Change’ took place this evening at Antioch University in Santa Barbara.

During the event more than 100 people enjoyed cocktails and appetizers, as well as heard from several speakers who spoke about the impacts of human trafficking globally as well as in our local community.

“There was actually a needs assessment done in the 2012-2014 period that identified 45 child survivors of human trafficking within our county. Those were confirmed survivors, that we could for sure say, that experienced exploitation or some form of trafficking, but that number is incredible small because it was only children who had contact with juvenile justice probation, law enforcement of some kind, or child welfare and so there is likely many others, ” said Hannah Early with Uffizi Order.

“We are here promoting that cause and a local organization doing a lot of really good stuff. Working with survivors, working on solutions and housing placements and just brining more awareness and attention to the issue to help local girls in our community who need it,” Daniel Colantonio with Hustlers for Humanity.

Proceeds from the event are going to help support local survivors.