Sometimes evil lurks in your own backyard
A few weeks ago I helped out with an event to help raise awareness about the issue of human trafficking and to raise funds for the construction of a girls’ home in Cambodia. That event was part of the Freedom Project. (http://donrock.myadventures.org/?filename=weekend-plans). We showed the film Nefarious: Merchant of Souls. Although we could initially have been disappointed by the turn-out, I believe that God had other plans for evening.
There we met and had the privilege of praying with a member of local law enforcement who was responsible for investigating human trafficking. He came seeking prayer for breakthrough with a potential case. He told us about a trafficking situation involving young Guatemalan girls here in Gainesville! We all know this is an issue from which no community is safe, but it hits extra hard when you hear it happens in your own back yard. Being from New York City, the trafficking of trans-nationals is rampant and an issue that is generally met with little resistance. Yet to think that this is going on in the sleepy little town of Gainesville is hard to image.
What We Know
There is a route from northern Guatemala to the Mexican-American border. Girls and other illegals are picked up there and taken to Atlanta, where they are dispersed all over Georgia. One of the primary destinations in Gainesville.
It is believed that there might be girls as young as 12 in the suspected house.
Investigations have gone cold because there is a hold up in funds and permission to investigate. What they need most is a little pressure. This can come through tips given by the general public.
What We Can Do
The best thing we can do right now is PRAY. Pray that God allows this investigation to move forward. Pray for a release of funds for this investigation to happen. Pray for the love of Christ to flood the part of Gainesville where this is happening. Pray that his love shelters the spirit and hearts of these girls and that his love will heal them fully once they are rescued.
If you are in the Gainesville area, call the tip line (1-866-DHS-2-ICE) or fill out this form if you suspect trafficking or if you see it happening. Do not go looking for trouble, but be observant.
1-866-DHS-2-ICE Tip Line
http://www.ice.gov/exec/forms/hsi-tips/tips.asp
http://www.ice.gov/human-trafficking/
