In 2018, nearly 65 million people across the globe were displaced. Many of them traveled to neighboring countries and other remote areas in hopes of finding refuge, with many ending up in cities that weren’t prepared to receive them. An unfortunate consequence of this displacement is the increased demand for rescue services. Every day, thousands of people are being exploited, harmed, or trafficked due to a lack of education and awareness about what these issues entail. In response to this global crisis, organizations like Heaven on Earth Rescue have sprung up all over the world. By working as an intermediary between victims and relevant authorities, they’re able to help those who need it most. Let’s take a deeper look at this organization and how you can get involved.
What is Heaven on Earth Rescue?
Heaven on Earth Rescue is a non-profit organization that helps victims of exploitation in the migrant communities of Southern California. Founded in 2015, this organization works to fight trafficking and exploitation by providing social services and education. Their goal is to create a world where every person feels safe and empowered to live their best life. Heaven on Earth is currently working in Long Beach, California, and has plans to expand to Orange County very soon. This organization is one of many that sprang up as a result of the migrant crisis. In just a year, there was a dramatic spike in the number of people seeking refuge in Europe and the United States. Unfortunately, many of these people were unprepared for what they would find when they arrived.
The Issue – Exploitation in the Global Migration Crisis
In many cases, people are fleeing their home countries because of serious threats to their safety. They are desperate for a fresh start. Unfortunately, many of them arrive in countries that aren’t prepared to receive them. This means that they’re left without proper resources, but also without the proper networks to help them integrate into their new communities. In a worst-case scenario, this can lead to exploitation and trafficking. Trafficking is a global issue that includes the exploitation of children and adults for sex and labor. At least 21 million people are victims of trafficking around the world. Human trafficking is the third-largest criminal industry in the world after drugs and arms trafficking. Sex trafficking is particularly prevalent in many countries that host migrants.
How You Can Help – By Becoming an Educator
The best way you can help fight exploitation and trafficking is by becoming an educator. Heaven on Earth Rescue is always looking for educators who can help disseminate information about sex trafficking and the migrant communities. You can find information on how to apply on their website. If you’re a teacher or work at a youth-serving organization, you can also apply to become an educator for the organization. Your job will be to visit communities, schools, and youth-serving organizations to inform people about the realities of exploitation and trafficking and how to prevent it.
How You Can Help – By Donating
Another way you can help fight exploitation and trafficking is by donating to organizations like Heaven on Earth Rescue. There are many different ways to donate. The most common is through giving money directly to the organization. You can also donate old or unused items that they may be able to use. Another option is to donate your time. Many organizations need volunteers to help with various tasks. If you or someone you know has special skills that could benefit the organization, you can also consider volunteering those services.
How You Can Help – By Volunteering Your Time
If you look online, you’ll find many organizations that require volunteers. If you have the skills to offer, then consider volunteering your time. If you have childcare responsibilities, you can also find opportunities to help that don’t require you to be away from home. Many organizations will let you know how you can help from your home. If you’re not sure where to start, you can also consider reaching out to organizations in your community. Many local organizations rely on volunteers. This can be a great way to get involved and meet new people who are also interested in helping.
Conclusion
The migrant crisis is a global issue that has created a significant demand for rescue services. In response, groups like Heaven on Earth Rescue have sprung up to help those who need it. This organization is working to fight exploitation and trafficking by providing education to communities. If you’re concerned about this issue and want to help, there are many ways you can get involved. You can volunteer your time, donate money or items, or become an educator to help spread awareness. By working together, we can make sure that everyone feels safe and empowered to live their best life.
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