The YWCA Hanover will host its annual Red Sand Project: Human Trafficking Awareness and Education Event on Friday, Jan. 30, aiming to bring community members together to learn about and confront human trafficking in Adams County and beyond.
The event is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the YWCA Hanover’s Safe Home location, 23 W. Chestnut St. in Hanover. Organizers say the gathering is designed to raise awareness of human trafficking and the individuals who are often overlooked or “fall through the cracks,” while also strengthening collaboration among agencies that work with survivors.
Community partners, law enforcement officials, service providers and local leaders are expected to attend. The program will include a symbolic red sand pouring, which represents victims of human trafficking whose exploitation often goes unnoticed, as well as an educational presentation focused on identifying trafficking and understanding its local impact. Remarks from local officials are also planned.
Lunch will be provided to participants.
YWCA Hanover officials say the event underscores the importance of education and partnership in addressing exploitation and supporting survivors. By bringing together organizations and individuals from across the community, the Red Sand Project seeks to promote a shared understanding of trafficking indicators, prevention strategies and available resources.
The Red Sand Project is held annually as part of broader efforts by YWCA Hanover’s Safe Home program to advocate for victim safety, provide support services and foster community-based responses to abuse and exploitation. The Safe Home program operates a 24-hour hotline and works closely with law enforcement, social service agencies and volunteers to assist individuals in crisis.
Organizers are asking those who plan to attend to RSVP by Jan. 20. Reservations can be made by responding to the event invitation or by calling the Safe Home hotline at 717-632-0007.
Source: YWCA Hanover