WillowBend Farms will present a conference next Thursday and Friday focused on combating human trafficking through raising awareness.
Administrative Director Kristina Higgins said WillowBend serves thirty-five counties, including Putnam, at a time when human trafficking on the rise. Higgins said the event covers a variety of topics to learn from.
“Whether you are just an individual who is passionate about these causes or if you work in a nonprofit or law enforcement legal, just any kind of different field,” Higgins said. “I feel like there is something for everyone, and you’ll be able to come away with it, from it with knowledge.”
Higgins said a school counselor reached out last year after attending a conference and recognized signs of a child being trafficked. Higgins said the counselor called the police, and the child was rescued, proving the importance of awareness. Higgins said for more information, to visit WillowBendFarms.Org.
“She left the conference, went back to school, saw a student, and realized I think this kid is probably being trafficked or at risk for it,” Higgins said. “And so she was able to call in the authorities and really help that child.”
Higgins said saving one life is better than saving none. She said WillowBend Farms partners with local authorities to help stop the spread of human trafficking, including collaborations with Cookeville PD and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. She said both departments, along with other organizations, will give presentations at the event.
“Definitely Cookeville PD there, we will have a couple presenters from there,” Higgins said. “We also have the TBI (Tennessee Bureau of Investigation), so they’re not Cookeville-specific, but they do serve Cookeville, and then Power of Putnam is going to be part of our conference, they’re actually one of our sponsors.”
