Story by: Kristen Quon
SULLIVAN COUNTY, Tenn–January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and the goal is to bring more awareness to the issue.
The Branch House Family Justice Center in Sullivan County helps find resources for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, overdose, and human trafficking.
Coordinated Community Response Specialist Brittany Fleenor, said the number of people forced into modern day slavery in the United States is astounding, and it is happening here locally.
“In order for these crimes to come to light and be prosecuted, and in order for victims to get help, there has to be community awareness and support, and so we really would like to educate the community about this crime right here in our backyard,” said Fleenor.
The Branch House is always available to provide services to anyone who might be a victim of human trafficking.
Branch House Family Justice Center is open Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For after-hours assistance, you can call the 24/7 hotline at (423) 574-7233.
If you know someone who is a victim, it is also important that you call your local authorities.