National Slavery and Human Trafficking Month in January 2022

January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Brewster, NY – January 7, 2022 – During January, the Putnam County Courthouse will be lit blue to raise awareness and recognize the millions of individuals affected by trafficking. Human trafficking is a widespread issue, impacting millions each year. New York State ranked fourth in reported trafficking cases, according to statistics from the Human Trafficking Hotline in 2020, illustrating the need for prevention and education strategies.

“Human trafficking is everywhere, including right here in Putnam County,” said County Executive MaryEllen Odell. “By lighting the courthouse blue, we show our support for victims and survivors. Every business, community organization, faith community, school, family, and individual can make a difference. I urge everyone to learn the signs of human trafficking.”

Trafficking involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to get someone to sell sex or work in exploitative conditions, which does not necessarily involve movement across borders. A person can be trafficked in their own home. Michael J. Piazza Jr., Commissioner of the Departments of Mental Health, Social Services, and Youth Bureau, says, “Educating the community on the unfortunate realities and common misconceptions of trafficking is part of the effort to protect families here in Putnam County.”

Green Chimneys Community Based Services now oversees the Putnam County Safe Harbour program through a contract with the Department of Social Services. Green Chimneys is a nonprofit organization guided by a mission to help young people maximize their full potential by providing residential, educational, clinical, and recreational services in a safe and supportive environment. Green Chimneys Community Based Services, provider of outreach and support to at-risk youth across Putnam County, will be participating in several activities throughout the month to raise awareness on human sex trafficking and slavery.

Green Chimneys will be handing out blue ribbons to providers in the community and urges participation in Homeland Security’s “Blue Campaign.” Putnam County Sheriff, Kevin McConville comments, “Human trafficking continues to be a public health concern in New York and the country.  It is important we take every opportunity to raise awareness of human trafficking and identify victims and perpetrators quickly. Human trafficking happens in all communities, rural and urban, and often in ways many of us would not suspect.  Please help us fight human trafficking by showing your support and wearing blue on January 11.”  Aside from the “Blue Campaign,” there is also an opportunity to join Putnam youth for a Pasta Dinner (Covid permitting) at the Green Chimneys Community Outreach Center on January 21.

Green Chimneys staff from the Runaway & Homeless Youth/ Arbor House Program, Transitional Living Program, and the Community Outreach Center will also be working with local youth to create poster boards that list statistics and facts about trafficking and modern-day slavery. These boards will be posted in the Community Outreach Center, Arbor House and the Community Based Offices for all youth, staff and families to view. RHY staff are hoping to post these statistic-filled information boards throughout Putnam County school districts. Additionally, the RHY team will distribute Safe Harbour flyers and brochures to schools, and be available to discuss additional questions, concerns or referrals with guidance counselors, social workers, and teachers.

All youth are at risk for trafficking, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, and gender. Runaway and homeless youth, youth who have been in the foster care system, and LGBTQ+ youth are at higher risk. Program Director of the CAC, Marla Behler deems, “We need to become more educated about how to recognize the signs, how to respond, and how to intervene. Together, we can make a difference.”