SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK) – On Thursday afternoon, East Texas citizens gathered together for a prayer day in order to raise awareness about human trafficking and offer hope to survivors as the community united in prayer.
The event was created after 4Kids4Famalies and Unbound Now partnered up along with support from local authorities and community leaders. The gathering occurred at 12:00 p.m. at the Smith County Courthouse Annex.
A representative of the Tyler District Attorney’s Office gave remarks at the event which emphasized the importance of community action as well as support for survivors.
4Kid4Families Community Relationship Director Belen Casillas spoke about the many lives that human tracking affects and how kids who grow up in foster care have a greater risk of being victims of human trafficking.
“Human trafficking affects countless lives across the globe, and vulnerable populations, including children in foster care, are at particular risk,” said Casillas. “This event offers an opportunity for the Tyler community to come together to support those impacted, pray for their healing, and renew their commitment to preventing future harm.”
As of Dec. 20, 2024, Unbound Now in Smith County has received 48 referrals in regard to human trafficking. Along with the referrals, there are also over 300,000 estimated victims of human trafficking in Texas. It has also been reported that approximately 79,000 minors are victims of sex trafficking in Texas.
Unbound Now’s Founder and Interim CEO Sarah Peters spoke about how important these kinds of community events are in order to raise awareness.
“We are grateful to stand together in prayer and solidarity against the evils of human trafficking,” said Peters. “Together, our community is making a difference in the lives of survivors and making freedom a lasting reality for many.”
