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October 2024

Blanket Fort Hope: Protecting Child Trafficking Victims in Alabama

Child trafficking is a heartbreaking issue, but Blanket Fort Hope (BFH) is leading the charge to protect and support child human trafficking survivors in Alabama. This nonprofit is dedicated to rescuing child trafficking victims and pushing for laws that safeguard them. With their efforts, key Alabama legislation like House Bills 260, 261, and 262 has been passed, marking significant progress in the fight against trafficking.

 

Alabama House Bill #260: Helping Healthcare Workers Protect Children

Children who are trafficked often come in contact with healthcare workers who don’t know how to identify human trafficking victims. This bill requires medical professionals to receive training to recognize and report signs of human trafficking. This training helps ensure that children in danger don’t go unnoticed.

"Healthcare workers can be a lifeline for trafficked children," says Alexa James, CEO of Blanket Fort Hope. "This bill gives them the tools to intervene and potentially save lives." BFH’s advocacy ensures that children who encounter healthcare workers have a better chance of being rescued.

 

Alabama House Bill #261: Making Truck Drivers Guardians on the Road

Trafficked children are often transported on highways, hidden from view. Blanket Fort Hope helped pass a law that requires CDL trainees to be trained on spotting and reporting human trafficking. This empowers truck drivers to be vigilant and report suspicious activity.

"Truck drivers can be our eyes on the road," says Alexa. "They can make a real difference in saving these children." Thanks to this law, truckers across Alabama are now better prepared to help protect human trafficking victims.

Alabama House Bill #262: Protecting Victims, Punishing Traffickers

Alabama House Bill #262, supported by *Blanket Fort Hope*, focuses on punishing those convicted of human trafficking, while protecting the identities of victims. This bill ensures that victims, many of whom are children, aren’t further shamed, while the real offenders are held accountable.

"These children are victims, not criminals," says Alexa. "They deserve protection and care, not public scrutiny." Blanket Fort Hope’s support for Alabama House Bill #262 helps protect child trafficking victims and targets the perpetrators.

 

A Mission Rooted in Care and Hope

Blanket Fort Hope doesn’t just advocate for better laws—they also provide direct support for child trafficking survivors, offering safe housing and restoration trauma therapy. Their mission is built on love, hope, and a commitment to giving every child a chance to heal.

 

Fighting for a Better Future

Through their advocacy, Blanket Fort Hope is changing lives. With laws like Alabama House Bill #260, #261, and #262 now in place, and their ongoing work with child trafficking survivors, BFH shows that these children are not forgotten. They are loved, protected, and given hope for a better future.

"We can’t erase their pain, but we can offer hope," says Alexa James. "That’s what Blanket Fort Hope is all about."