CHICAGO (CBS) — On National Human Trafficking Day, a group of determined volunteers took to the streets of the West Side on Saturday to provide an unexpected lifeline to those in need.
The outreach teams left at 9 p.m. and continued on a route that took them to different places where they knew people would be there – places like bus stops – all on a mission to meet as many people as possible and distribute care packages.
Each kit contains not only clothing and toiletries, but also a contact number for a 24-hour helpline (570-HELP-HER or 570-435-7437), a first step for anyone looking for a way out of a dangerous situation.
Volunteers took them around Chicago’s West Side on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day for their own annual community event they call “Girls Night Out.”
“Most people who go out for the first time are really surprised at how receptive the young ladies on the street are because they know what we’re here for. They know we’re here for help, but they’re not.” resistant,” says founder Kisha Roberts-Tabb.
The kits are packaged to cater to different demographics: women, girls, boys or transgender people.
Organizers planned to distribute the care packages at midnight Saturday evening, hoping their message of providing help sticks with those who need it.
“Keep talking about it until you can get out,” said Girls Night Out participant Gail Mitchell.
On Saturday, the group focused on the West Side. Next time they will be on the South Side later this month.
