Did you know 27 million people are enslaved around the world?
That's more than at any other time in human history. The idea that people in the 21st century are exploited and treated like property makes me physically sick and grieves my spirit. I hope it does you as well.
The vast majority of human trafficking - approximately 80% - involves sexual exploitation. That includes forcing victims into prostitution and committing sex acts for the purpose of producing pornography.
Human trafficking is now the fastest-growing criminal industry in the world. That's why CMDA Atlanta is committed to rescuing as many women, boys and girls as possible from the commercial sex trade by sending medical mission teams around the world - like our Atlanta medical team serving in Ethiopia last February that encountered, served and helped rescue sex workers through the medical clinic and ministry. Also, CMDA Atlanta is working with ministries like "Night Light" and many others to help those caught in the sex industry here in Atlanta. As many of you probably already know, Atlanta is one of the biggest hubs of sex and human trafficking in the world.
Sex Trafficking Statistics:
- According to the U.S. State Dept. 600-800,000 people are trafficking across international borders every year. Of which, 80% are female and half are children.
- Globally, the average cost of a slave is $90.
- The average age a teen enters the sex trade in the U.S. is 12-14 years old.
- Only 1-2% of human trafficking victims are ever rescued.
In order for CMDA Atlanta to continue helping those caught in the sex trade, it takes the fervent prayers and generous financial support from our community. We view our work in human trafficking as a natural outgrowth of our commitment as Christian healthcare professionals to serve the least, the last and the lost.