Most people think of slavery as a thing of the past. However, there are more slaves in the world today than at any other time in human history with an estimated 27 million people living in captivity worldwide. Men, women, and children are sold, trafficked, and exploited for manual and sexual labor. As clients seek a fresher product, the average age of trafficking victims continues to decrease. The average age is just 12 years old, and victims as young as four are rescued. That’s where hope begins. The A21 ministry currently operates four restoration facilities that provide food, shelter, personal items, and basic education for survivors. A21 missionaries also work toward prevention by raising awareness. Through education, they help young people avoid dangerous situations that could lead to trafficking. Increased awareness has also led to partnerships with local law enforcement. Each survivor has access to legal counsel, and traffickers are finally being prosecuted. While A21 is making progress, the goal is to abolish human trafficking once and for all. Only one percent of all victims is rescued, and one out of every 100,000 traffickers is prosecuted. There is still work to be done, and Riverlife wants to be part of it. By contributing to The A21 Campaign, we help fund the restoration facilities these survivors so desperately need. We encourage everyone to take part by praying for A21 and those involved in the dangerous investigative work required for legal action; by helping to raise awareness about human trafficking; and by giving at specially designated times as the Lord leads. Click here to learn more about A21 and the post-modern abolition movement.
