Coptic Orthodox Charities Inc (COC)

More than 27 million people around the world endure the horrific abuse of human trafficking and forced labor, including thousands of people right here in the United States. It is a threat to global security, public safety, and human dignity.

As of July 2024, Florida ranks third in the United States for reported human trafficking cases. The majority of these cases involve children, with the Florida Department of Children and Families reporting that the average age of a trafficked person is 12 years old. Sex trafficking is the most common form of human trafficking in Florida, with 80% of reported sex trafficking cases involving girls and women. Technology has made it easier for traffickers to groom and exploit victims online.

Florida's tourism industry may make it a target for human trafficking, as more people travel to the state for entertainment. Some warning signs of human trafficking include fearfulness, submissiveness, paranoia, tension, and psychological abuse.

A large problem is that once these victims are rescued they have no where to go. Coptic Orthodox Charities, is working to help provide a safe home for survivors. A place where they can receive immediate shelter and medical attention.

There is no greater sin than the abuse of power, and human trafficking is among the worst abuses that exist. We must each play a role in ending it; we cannot turn away.

Coptic Orthodox Charities have been helping the community for 23 years. With a dedicated staff, amazing local agencies, and help from the community, the Moving Mountains program will be able to provide services like human trafficking prevention workshops, safe housing, medical care, food assistance, and case management to our local victims. This is why your contributions are so important.