By Brenda Wynn

Community Advocate

Inner Banks Hotline

An estimated 21 million are trafficked globally in any given moment. Trafficking can happen anywhere, restaurants, salons, neighborhood homes and local hotels.

In January 2011 President Barack Obama issued a Presidential Proclamation, designating each January to be National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention Month and this day is recognized to be January 11.

Slavery was abolished in the USA by the 13th Amendment in December 1865; however, sadly, human trafficking is growing at an alarming rate and even though the USA is a first-world country, human trafficking has become a lucrative business for some.

A young girl who is stricken by the “love bug” decides that she is willing to allow her boyfriend to use her for money trade and sex.

Then there is the young girl or boy who is abducted on their way home from school or another event, never to be seen or heard from again by their parents, only to be sold by someone for a price.

Help raise awareness and potentially save peoples lives by educating yourself in the despicable act of human trafficking.

If you or anyone you know or if you suspect someone of being a victim of human trafficking, please feel free to contact the IBX Hotline staff to pursue ways to safety.

The 24-hour Crisis Line number is 877-429-5526.

Inner Banks Hotline uses proceeds from its Thrift Store sales to supplement its operating budget. Everyone is invited to come in and shop. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Donations are accepted in the back in the open carport.

Inner Banks Hotline is at 507 US Hwy 64 East (beside Family Dollar) in Columbia; telephone 252-796-5526.

Inner Banks Hotline staff are Janie Spencer, Executive Director; Norma Hill, Client Advocate; Brenda Wynn, Community Advocate; Gloria Owens, Thrift Store Manager; and Avis Bryant, Faith/Hispanic Outreach Advocate.