Jessica McKeever, left, and her assistant, Wende Lescynski, listen as one attendee asks a question during the human trafficking workshop at the Kennedy Free Library. Photo by Rose Mary Carver

KENNEDY — The Kennedy Free Library was recently host for a informative workshop about human trafficking. Led by Jessica McKeever, Chautauqua County Safe Harbour Coordinator and Community Educator from the YWCA of Jamestown, and her assistant, Wende Lescynski, the workshop helped to educate those attending about what exactly is meant by human trafficking, and dispelled some of the misconceptions about who participates in this growing problem.

They told of how they have seen many cases in this area, which is why they are trying to educate the public about its presence. McKeever explained that exploitation could take place in many ways. Whether for underpaid labor or sexual predation, or something else of value, exploitation can take many forms. One exercise used examples showing that it is not just the stereotypical person, but people from all walks of life and all ages that resort to human trafficking.

Those who fall victim to these schemes may be trying to enjoy some of the finer things in life, or just trying to get by for day-to-day living expenses. Some may be trying to support dependencies they suffer.

Many times people could be helped if they were given access to programs such as Safe Harbor. A chart was shown with a list of red flags that can be clues that a person might be a victim of abuse and/or trafficking. Ms. McKeever and Ms. Lescynski talked about the program they present for area schools to give students a better understanding of what trafficking is, and the ways they can help themselves or others to escape.

The presenters described some of the situations they see, and gave advice about how to recognize a potential situation. They also informed those attending how they could contact groups that are trained to help provide relief or victims. Both Ms. McKeever and Ms. Lescynski have worked with local authorities as well as schools to help them realize how this problem is growing in our area, and how to deal with it.

Ms. McKeever said if someone has even the slightest suspicion, they could call anonymously to tell authorities what they fear is happening. The Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline number is 1-800-342-3720. This is a New York State number, and they would contact the proper local groups.

Anyone interested in learning more is asked to contact McKeever at the YWCA Jamestown/CAPP Program. The phone number is 484-4487 ext 219. The e-mail is jessicam@ywcaofjamestown.com.