chuman trafficking Archives

For several years now, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been working with the faith community to combat human trafficking. This scourge on today’s society has been described as “the greatest human rights issue in today’s world” – “a dark industry generating around $150 billion a year from the broken backs, broken hearts and broken dreams of young and old alike.”

Now a Baptist church in New Orleans and its outreach to homeless people has been honored by the FBI for partnering with them in fighting against human trafficking across the city. FBI Director, Christopher Wray, has given the Director’s Community Leadership Award to the Baptist Friendship House, represented by Kay Bennet.

‘Community Leadership Award’

Today, the #FBI New Orleans Field Office locally recognized Dr. Kay Bennett and Baptist Friendship House as the 2018 recipients of the Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA). Dr. Bennet will travel to FBI Headquarters this spring to receive her award from Director Wray. pic.twitter.com/KBReshD5no

— FBI New Orleans (@FBINewOrleans) January 30, 2019

Kay Bennet, a missionary worker who is also with the North American Mission Board, received the award at FBI headquarters in Washington DC on behalf of the church.

“It’s very humbling, to be honest… It was a beautiful picture of how it takes all of us working together to make our world a better place. It’s encouraging to know that people believe in what you’re doing,” Kay said in an interview, expressing her gratitude to a great group from all the states and the different FBI field offices for recognizing them.

Eric J Rommal, FBI New Orleans special agent, praised the church for its leadership in dealing with this horrific issue.

Kay Bennet

For almost 30 years, missionary Kay Bennet has been doing ‘Homeless Ministry’, and according to her, homeless people are much prone and vulnerable to be victims of human trafficking.

In 2013 she joined the anti-human trafficking task force, together with the Baptist Friendship House, which provides housing for victims, especially women and children. They also offer “In-House Counseling” to over 1,100 women and another 3,300 people externally.

In addition, the Baptist Friendship House also offers day programs, such as educational courses, computer skills, job readiness training, English as a second language, life skills, as well as Bible studies.

Now, Kay is urging other churches to get involved in helping those who are being trafficked. According to her, human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world, and it is happening all over the USA.

Be vigilant!

Let us help defeat the scourge of modern-day slavery and trafficking. Pray, get involved, and be a voice. Be vigilant! And always be aware of what’s going on around you. If you notice something illegal, immediately report it to the authorities.

The post was compiled by Joyca Togonon

Reference: FAITH WIRE