Human trafficking is the illegal trade in human beings for commercial sexual exploitation or forced labor: a modern-day form of slavery. Globally, human trafficking is the fastest-growing criminal industry in the world; second to the illegal drug trade. Globally there are 27.6 million human trafficking victims. In Ohio, over 1,000 individuals are trafficked each year.

The United Methodist Church is committed to combating human trafficking in all forms and protecting vulnerable people and communities from slavery and exploitation.

On January 11, Human Trafficking Awareness Day, wearing blue honors human trafficking survivors and raises awareness. If you are active on social media and wear blue that day, we invite you to post a picture with the hashtag #wearblueday.

Gracehaven, based in Central Ohio is a place of hope and healing for youth victims of Human Trafficking. Through services such as safe housing and family counseling, Gracehaven focuses on helping survivors of human trafficking heal and live a life of dignity.

Click here to learn more about Gracehaven

Click here to listen to the United Women in Faith “Faith Talks” Podcast featuring Hannah Swift, director of community outreach and training for Gracehaven, the only licensed residential group home for sex-trafficked minors in Ohio.