Deep Water Home & Electronics Hosts Informational Event

by Loni Rahm

Every two minutes, a child is bought and sold for sex. Statistically, there are more modern-day slaves in our world today than at any other point in history.

It is an unthinkable problem that exists not only in developing nations, but throughout our own U.S. communities where an estimated 250,000 children are exploited every year.

A recent report from CNN cites staggering numbers. “According to the United Nations, there are between 27 and 30 million modern-day slaves in the world. And the U.S. State Department cites that 600,000 to 800,000 people are trafficked across borders every year. But these numbers are often under-reported and victims are usually hidden in the shadows, meaning that real, concrete statistics are often elusive.”

The fastest-growing criminal enterprise in the world, sex trafficking is a $99 billion annual industry, and most law enforcement agencies lack the resources and training to break up these international crime rings and hidden internet criminals.

Deep Water Home & Electronics has teamed up with the Malouf Foundation and local organizations to share the startling truth about child sex trafficking in our own backyard. They invite you to join them for for refreshments and information on Saturday, October 20th, from 4-6 p.m. at their downtown store – 131 E. Woodin Avenue.

Speakers include a representative from the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office who has training in human sex trafficking, a representative from SAGE – a Wenatchee advocacy group, and two representatives from the Malouf Foundation who will show a brief awareness video called “On Watch”.

Diana Hoyt is pictured with the Fund Raising Pillows. Purchase results in a $5 donation to the Malouf Foundation.

Diana Hoyt, Interior Stylist for Deep Water, was first exposed to the foundation’s efforts at a trade show she attended.

Hoyt indicated the entire purpose of the gathering is to “bring awareness to our community. The issue is here but most don’t know about it,” she said.

Deep Water Home & Electronics will have a pledge board that will allow attendees to commit to being on watch.

For additional information, call 509-881-8982.

Additional Resources:

The Malouf Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Malouf Sleep – the mattress and bedding company whose products are offered at Deep Water Home & Electronics.

Their Mission is: Providing Hope and Freedom for Children Around the World

Our (Malouf Foundation) flagship cause is to rescue and shelter sexually exploited and trafficked children. Additionally, we work to stop physical and sexual abuse, while supporting other humanitarian efforts.

Together, with partners from the community and our causes, the Malouf Foundation works to ensure every child lives with freedom, hope, justice, dignity—and sleeps in a safe home.

For additional information, visit the Malouf Foundation website.

For a list of national and international anti-slavery organizations, visit the CNN Freedom Project website.