Human Trafficking Remains A Major Issue For LOTO Residents

Word is getting out but there’s still a lot of work to do in reaching some of the potentially more problem areas when it comes to human trafficking.

“We are trying to get into all of the schools with what is called the BE Alert program and it’s age specific from kindergarten to 12th grade. Our coalition is willing to pay it. It’s a $5000 program every year.”

Samantha West, President of Lake of the Ozarks Stop Human Trafficking Coalition, says not all school districts around the lake area are on board with the coalition and its programs.

West also says the keys to minimizing the issue are prevention and awareness that human trafficking is a real problem around the lake area.

“We’re just constantly looking for volunteers to join us to educate people. We do a lot of events trying to get the word out.”

One event coming up for the coalition is a fundraiser from 2-5pm on January 25^th at Bowlmor Lanes in Osage Beach.

More information about the human trafficking and the Lake of the Ozarks coalition is available on its website.