My City May 2023

MYCOMMUNITY

BECAUSE EVERY CHILD DESERVES A LIFE OF SAFETY & LOVE

BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PRISM PROJECT T he crime of human trafficking is at an epidemic level and the statistics are concerning. It is the fastest growing organized crime, estimated to generate $150 billion globally including an annual $32 billion in the United States. There are an estimated 4.8 million victims of sex traffick ing in the U.S., 99% of whom are women and young girls. Just over one quarter are children. “The average age of a victim at the onset is between 12 and 14 years old,” says Ashley Chandler, Director of Finance for Prism Project, “and it happens in every zip code.” The outcome for victims of sex trafficking is extremely dire. “The average life expectancy of a victim is seven years,” Chandler adds. “Their deaths could be the result of physical abuse, drug over dose or suicide. Almost 45% of victims die by suicide.” The problem is immense and it is happening right now all over the country. To help in the fight against hu man sex trafficking, Genesee County has been incredibly proactive with mul tiple organizations working to help victims, deter criminals and hold those responsible

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