Mission Makers
Brought to you by: Community Partner Sawyer Solutions, sawyersolutionsllc.com
57% of all victims of human trafficking are minors, according to 2017 BEAMS Study. Child human trafficking is happening all around the country, explains Birmingham based ministry Blanket Fort Hope (BFH) Chief Executive Officer Alexa James. “We do have a problem in Alabama. Human trafficking is the second-largest crime in the United States but also the fastest growing crime,” she says, adding, “This crime is a substantial problem in Alabama, yet few housing options exist in Alabama for trafficked children.”
“Blanket Fort Hope was birthed in 2015 with the mission to help child survivors of human trafficking,” James says. The mission of BFH is, “to restore hope in the lives of child sex trafficking survivors through access to essential services, compassionate care, and a loving Christian witness.” In July 2021, BFH purchased 73 acres of land in Columbiana, Ala. to build a restoration home for child survivors. “We’ve cleared off the spot where the house will be built and are waiting on one last permit before we start building,” James shares, adding that they hope to start building by August 1, if not sooner. The restoration home will be a 10-bedroom home with nine beds for children and a houseparent suite. BFH is a part of Big Oak Ranch’s Planting Oaks (www.bigoak.org). “They have been so good to walk us through the educational and houseparent components, the DHR process, and more.” As James reflects on the last eight years of preparing for this moment, she says her faith has carried her.
Grab your running shoes! The 5th Annual Hold the Fort 5K & 10K and 1 Mile Fun Run is set for September 16, 2023 at Oak Mountain State Park from 8 a.m.- 11 a.m. “The run is an opportunity for people who like to run or walk to support a cause and make a difference for child survivors of human trafficking,” James explains. The money that is raised will help build the restoration home. The goal for this year’s run is to raise $30,000-$50,000. Registration is available now at www.holdthefortraces.com. To learn more about BFH and how you can be involved, visit www.blanketforthope.org.
-Melissa Armstrong
Brought to you by: Community Partner, Sawyer Solutions
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