Impact of Advocacy: “The moment…that I realized I was a survivor, I went right up to them and said, I will give you my voice, because we do need laws.”
Theresa Flores
In a heart-wrenching episode of “Looking Forward Our Way,” we welcome Theresa Flores, the indomitable founder of The SOAP Project. Theresa’s tireless endeavors in combatting human trafficking shed light on a grim reality that often lurks in the shadows of our society. Drawing from her personal experiences and a profound determination to save others, Theresa engages in a pivotal discussion about the challenges and triumphs faced in the fight against human trafficking.
The SOAP Project: Origins and Mission
Theresa Flores established The SOAP Project (Save Our Adolescents from Prostitution) in 2006 with a singular mission—to rescue young individuals from the horrifying grip of human trafficking. As a survivor herself, Theresa’s journey is a testament to resilience and an unyielding will to enact change. The SOAP Project is renowned for its unique approach. This is done by distributing bars of soap labeled with hotline numbers that victims can call for help. These simple yet effective tools are strategically placed in locations where traffickers often operate. This helps bridge the gap between victims and life-saving resources.
The Stark Reality of Human Trafficking
Ohio ranks among the top five states for human trafficking. This is a chilling statistic driven by its extensive highway systems and large metropolitan areas. Theresa emphasizes that trafficking is not confined to urban zones; rural areas in Ohio and Michigan also witness familial trafficking. Alarmingly, traffickers continuously evolve their methods to avoid detection, steering clear of traditional hotspots like hotel rooms.
Despite its prevalence, human trafficking seldom captures sustained media attention. Theresa Flores passionately advocates for a shift in media coverage, urging a focus on the victims and the support they need. Rather than sensationalized accounts that often overshadow their plight. With approximately 1,300,000 missing and runaway children in the U.S., the media holds a critical role in raising awareness and driving societal action.
Engaging Communities and Volunteers
A cornerstone of The SOAP Project’s success is its community engagement through large outreach events. Collaborations with local organizations, churches, and even large events like the Super Bowl extend the reach of their mission. SOAP outreaches, though financially demanding (costing between $12,000 to $15,000 per event), are invaluable in creating immediate and impactful interventions.
Volunteers, including law enforcement and retired fire chiefs, form the backbone of these initiatives. By distributing labeled soap bars and educating the public on signs of trafficking, they play a pivotal role in the early identification and rescue of victims. The program operates nationwide, relying on a network of dedicated chapters to mobilize efforts in various cities.
Addressing Unique Survivor Needs
A significant yet often overlooked aspect of human trafficking is the plight of male survivors. Theresa acknowledges the limited resources available for them and highlights ongoing efforts to address their unique needs. The ultimate goal is to provide holistic support that caters to all survivors’ mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
Organized wellness weekends offer survivors a reprieve from their tumultuous pasts, providing essential care and emotional support. Plans for future events, including a conference to raise awareness and discuss legislative changes, underscore Theresa’s commitment to a comprehensive approach to combating trafficking.
Financial Challenges and Fundraising Efforts
The financial challenges in this noble fight are immense. Theresa outlines the reliance on support from churches, individual donors, and fundraisers to sustain outreach programs and support services. Upcoming initiatives, like a dental program for survivors—who often suffer from severe dental issues and lack insurance—highlight the continuous need for funding.
Legislative Advocacy and Community Vigilance
Theresa’s advocacy transcends grassroots efforts, extending to legislative changes at the state and national levels. Notable initiatives include removing the statute of limitations for minors in Michigan and addressing the systemic challenges in prosecuting traffickers.
The public plays a vital role in this battle. By staying vigilant, recognizing signs of trafficking, and supporting organizations like The SOAP Project, communities can collectively create a safety net for potential victims. Theresa’s outreach to students reveals the harrowing reality that even schools are not immune, emphasizing the need for widespread education and vigilance.
The Slave Across the Street 10th Anniversary Edition by Theresa Flores Paperback Book
SOAP-Project-Resource-Sheet-2024
