We love our beautiful city, but for many victims of human trafficking (including sex trafficking), San Diego isn’t paradise, it’s hell on earth. Human trafficking is on the rise in San Diego, being the county’s second largest underground economy ($810 million), with an estimated 9,000 to 12,000 victims per year that come into contact with San Diego law enforcement. The majority of sex trafficking victims (over 79%) were born in the U.S. with approximately 11% coming from Mexico. Most people aren’t aware of this “underground economy” but it is a horrible reality for thousands of victims- there are between 8,800 and 12,000 victims of human trafficking in San Diego County, and the vast majority of them entered into the industry at only 16 years of age. Female recruiters or “pimps” are on the rise; Most pimps typically manage 4 to 5 victims on average, with most victims coming from homeless situations or foster care. In an effort to raise public awareness, Rock Church is hosting a 2-Day Human Trafficking Awareness Seminar at the Point Loma campus May 31 (from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.) and June 1 (9:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.). Local organizations such as the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force as well as San Diego Youth Services, Generate Hope, Hidden Treasures, Petals, Know More and North County Lifeline will speak about human trafficking trends and offer practical steps that people can take when they suspect human trafficking is happening. Guests will also learn how to help prevent trafficking as well as resources available to survivors. San Diego county residents are invited to come and learn more at this comprehensive seminar. The cost is $20 for both days and includes food and drink. People are encouraged to come and can register for the event at https://www.sdrock.com/events/20570/. All proceeds from the seminar go to the organizations listed to help end human trafficking here in San Diego county.