8th Annual Conference to be held February 6th in Cincinnati; Pre-registration Closes February 4th
Cincinnati, OH (January 23, 2015) – The Salvation Army is encouraging those interested in addressing human trafficking to attend the 8th Annual Greater Cincinnati Human Trafficking Conference. The conference seeks to educate, inform and encourage engagement in the arena of human trafficking, which will lead to a coordinated and informed response. The one-day event offers a total of 12 workshops, running across four sessions. Workshops cover a wide range of topics, from basic concepts to more advanced academic studies on best practices. A lunch-time session for all attendees will provide an update on local anti-human trafficking efforts.
“Our work in the area of human trafficking is foundational in our organizational identity,” stated Major Larry Ashcraft, Divisional Commander at The Salvation Army. “When The Salvation Army started 150 years ago in London, our work was often with women, men and children caught in various forms of slavery. Today, we have a renewed effort to combat modern-day slavery, but we need the support of others in the community to join the effort.”
“We’re excited that so many individuals have already signed up for this year’s conference, and we can still register up to 100 more attendees” stated Erin Meyer, Program Manager for The Salvation Army’s Anti-Human Trafficking efforts. “Our work to reduce human trafficking and support survivors is progressing, and we need to continue to press forward and engage more individuals in our community to join us in this work. The conference is a great forum for those who are interested, regardless of their current level of knowledge on the subject, to learn more and understand how they can participate in the response.”
The conference will be held on February 6, 2015 at the local Red Cross offices located at 2111 Dana Ave, 45207. CEUs are available for the conference -- details are provided on the registration web site, where interested parties can view the conference agenda and pre-register through February 4th: (http://www.endslaverycincinnati.org/events/conference2015/); cost is $30 for students (with an ID) or $50 for non-students. Same-day, on-site registration is $70. The event includes lunch. Those interested in the conference are encouraged to visit the registration link (above), or contact Bhumika Patel at The Salvation Army, 513-762-5600.
In Greater Cincinnati, The Salvation Army launched an Anti-Human Trafficking program in 2012. Since its inception, the program has provided services and material assistance to hundreds of individuals. Forms of assistance include housing, clothing, personal care kits, meals and food vouchers, bus passes and medical care. Those in need of assistance or wanting to report a possible incidence of human trafficking can call 513-800-1863. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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