On January 7th, coinciding with National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the non-profit organization “Olive Crest” inaugurated its first rescue center in Bellflower, Los Angeles County, providing assistance to survivors of sex trafficking under the age of 18.
According to Donald A. Verleur, CEO of Olive Crest, in the United States, “a child is sold and sexually exploited every 2 minutes,” with Southern California being one of the most densely trafficked regions due to its proximity to borders, international airports/ports, numerous entertainment venues, and a diverse population.
There are two ways to help sex trafficking survivors, as highlighted by the newly elected Los Angeles County District Attorney, Nathan Hochman. One is through a specialized task force dedicated to combating human trafficking and holding traffickers accountable. The second is by providing resources and support to help victims rebuild their lives, such as the establishment of rescue centers like this one.
Verleur explained that about two years ago, a plan was formulated in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, county departments, and population trafficking task forces in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego Counties to establish seven temporary shelters with rapid response teams operating 24/7. Two additional rescue centers will be opened in Orange County and San Diego later this month.
This initiative has garnered widespread support from public and private sector entities, with the California government granting a $10 million fund over a three-year period. The initial funding of approximately $100 million in March 2022 will provide minors with mental health services, medical aid, educational resources, vocational training, and basic life necessities.
Founded in 1973 by Don and Lois Verleur, Olive Crest, translating to “home of peace,” has expanded its reach over the years, serving over 250,000 children. Their Chief Development Officer, Stephen Christensen, notes the organization’s presence for 51 years, extending services from Santa Barbara County in the north to San Diego County in the south, catering to over 5,000 children daily.
Verleur emphasized that nearly 20% of these children have endured sex trafficking experiences, with around half having been “contacted.” The youngest victim recorded was only 10 years old, with over two-thirds being female and hailing from local, out-of-state, or international backgrounds. The rescue center offers meals, laundry facilities, education, entertainment, and secure accommodations like apartments, foster homes, or with relatives. In the future, there are plans to construct 12 two-bedroom apartments opposite the Bellflower center.
Michelle Heater, program director for victim assistance at Waymakers, a nonprofit organization in Orange County, voiced support for the establishment of Olive Crest’s rescue center. In 2022, the organization assisted 133 female survivors, with around 40% being minors, who were coerced into a life they did not choose.
One survivor, Alia Azariah, trafficked at the age of 12, shared her tumultuous 14-year ordeal spanning Southern and Central California. Reflecting on her previous encounters with temporary shelters, Azariah highlighted the importance of such facilities in providing essential support and a safe space for those in need of healing and protection.
During the event, various speakers, including Frank Ramos, Deputy Director of Children and Family Services in Los Angeles County, expressed appreciation for the 15 specially trained social workers at the rescue center, emphasizing the enhanced level of support available to survivors compared to previous years. The facility’s amenities, such as laundry rooms, game rooms, computer labs, and therapists, will contribute to the holistic recovery of survivors.
Rick Armendariz, Chief of the Anaheim Police Department in Orange County, underscored the destructive impact of human trafficking on victims, families, and communities. Recalling statistics from 2018 to 2022, he revealed alarming figures indicating a pattern of repeated arrests and criminal histories among sex traffickers, shedding light on the severe consequences faced by young victims coerced into sex trade activities.
Both Olive Crest and Waymakers serve as essential partners for law enforcement agencies in combatting human trafficking, as highlighted by Armendariz, who announced the future establishment of an Olive Crest rescue center in Anaheim. The collaborative efforts of these organizations are crucial in raising awareness and providing assistance to individuals ensnared in the cycle of exploitation.
In their fight against human trafficking, organizations continue to collaborate beyond jurisdictional boundaries. Robert Luna, Sheriff of Los Angeles County, emphasized the seriousness of combating human trafficking crimes, advocating for the severe punishment of offenders to deter future incidents.
Since the establishment of the Human Trafficking Task Force in 2015, Luna commended the exemplary work done by detectives, comprising a multidisciplinary and cross-departmental approach to tackling these crimes. To date, a total of 520 trafficking victims, including 389 minors, have been rescued, with over 2,800 traffickers, pimps, buyers, and exploiters arrested both online and on the streets.
The collective efforts and dedication of these organizations signal a united front in the battle against human trafficking, encapsulating a commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring a safer future for all.