Volunteers Fight Human Trafficking With Hot Chocolate

Local non-profit groups are teaming up to help put a stop to human trafficking in the metro in a unique way. The Salvation Army is donating a truck that will drive to South Robinson Avenue to bring hot chocolate to prostitutes and they're asking for help.

An estimated 85% of the women on the streets were trafficked or pimped as children. No Boundaries and the Salvation Army will train volunteers brave enough to battle the cold and possible confrontation. Organizers say it could decrease human trafficking and prostitution.

"We are not trying to bully our way into a neighborhood, but just want to say somebody cares about you. Somebody really cares about you," Lisa Bell of the Salvation Army said.

Bell said what's in their hands is hot chocolate but what they are really offering these women is their hearts, and a way out, but earning trust first by forging relationships.

Bell has already spent time on South Robinson and always comes with gifts and an encouraging word.

"I said, ‘Do you need a pair of gloves?' Then we said, ‘Jesus loves you, and we will see you next week.' They were like, ‘Bye,'" Bell said.

The Salvation Army and No Boundaries need help with this mission so they are getting advice from law enforcement.

There are several ways to help. The task force is meeting Friday January 13, 2012 at the Salvation Army at 2808 Southeast 44th street at 7 p.m. Volunteers are encouraged to attend.