NORWICH – This month is dedicated to raising awareness about different forms of human trafficking, ways to support trafficking survivors and education the community.

Human/Sex Trafficking is a largely hidden crime involving. one or more people exploiting another person for labor, services or sex. For Chenango County, its seen as youth engaging in risky behavior in exchange for monies or good.

Additionally, Wednesday January 11 is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in where community members and agencies raise awareness and show support by wearing or shining the color blue. At Chenango County Child Advocacy Center (CAC), we’re committed to educating students and providing direct services for at-risk youth in the prevention of trafficking as well as providing direct service for individuals impacted by human/sex trafficking.

Chenango Child Advocacy Center works in conjunction with Chenango County Department of Social Services to provide Safe Harbour services to at-risk youth and youth who have already experienced exploitation. In 2021, Chenango Child Advocacy Center provided services to 21 at-risk or exploited youth. In 2021, that number increased to 55 at-risk and exploited youth.

The majority of the at-risk youth participating in the Chenango Safe Harbour program are referred from other agencies, meaning their victimizations have already been reported through the appropriate pathways. However, many survivors don’t report or do not know to report and do not get resources that could benefit them. Here are a few positive outcomes of at-risk-youth who were able to receive services through the Safe Harbour Program at Chenango Child Advocacy Center;

Relocating an out of state teen who was reported as missing.

A youth who was exploited online gained enough confidence in themselves to participate in an activity providing awareness to others who may show at-risk behavior.

A high school graduate had the opportunity to gain independent living.

Assisted in Family Court matters regarding ongoing treatment.

Safe Harbour also assisted youth in receiving necessary medical care.

Many youth participated in community activities teaching them life skills, positive self-care, and self-development.

Look for Blue Lights Shining Throughout Norwich in recognition of National Trafficking Awareness Month. Such places that you’ll see blue lights pop up are the Chenango Child Advocacy Center - Silver Street, Chenango County Department of Social Services – Court Street, LiveEventNY Building – Main Street and the Eaton Center – Eaton Ave. Also a big shout out goes to LiveEventNY for the endless supports that it provides to the Chenango Child Advocacy Center throughout the year in the effort to raise awareness of child abuse and trafficking issues which include the Annual “Hope for Healing” 5K Run/Walk which is scheduled for Saturday, April 30th, 2023 this year.

– Information from Chenango Child Advocacy Center