Do You Know Lacy?

On November 3rd, approximately 120 people gathered in one place to discuss one thing. How to identify the "Lacys" in our community, Bellingham. The Bridges Anti Trafficking Coalition partnered with the other local organization, Access Freedom and the group Shared Hope International to host this great training. People arrived from Oregon, California, Idaho and Montana to receive training on how, they, as concerned citizens; police officers, social workers, teachers, or church goers could identify a potential victim of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking. To start off the morning, a survivor shared her story of exploitation, quickly convincing attendees that there is a need, even here in our relatively small town. This happens in small towns. It happens in large cities. We all must be aware.

We continued on and learned about some dynamics of pimp control and the delicateness of working with a victim or potential victim through the "No String Attached" activity led by Dr. Becca Johnson who works often with survivors and does after care training. In the afternoon, the crowd was divided by profession or interest: law enforcement, social service providers/medical professionals, and community/youth advocates. Here they received specialized training. Tools to use, adapt and pass on to coworkers.

Back together at the end of the day the charge was given. Now, as an educated group, how do we move forward? Thankfully, there are two strong groups of people active in Bellingham, complimenting each other's work very well if I do say myself. Access Freedom is primarily focusing on education, awareness, and prevention while us here at Bridges Coalition have formed a "Multidisciplinary Team" where policies and procedures are created on how to work with the numerous essential agencies in town and to create an efficient response plan for an identified or potential DMST victim. In conclusion the plan is this:

1. Identify new location and outlets to educate and spread awareness. Provide training for agencies and employees that express interest and show a need.

2. Continue formation or MultiDisciplinary Team/ Response Task Force.

3. Continue direct outreach to high risk youth populations in Bellingham and Whatcom County.

4. Strengthen relationships and networking opportunities for people in Whatcom County who care about Trafficked Youth and have resources to offer or need. (i.e. folks interested in creating housing with potential funding, etc...)

5. Raise funds for this challenging work to continue.

6. Unite the churches and those praying to truly wage the spiritual battle and pray for the future survivors and the current perpetrators.


Thank you so much for your continued interest, we hope, in what Cameron and I are working so hard on. It has been a challenge and a blessing. God has continued to lead us in this work so we will continue to follow. He is revealing Himself to us in new ways each day and we learn daily the need for deeper faith and His mercy in Christ. Please feel free to leave comment or email with comments or questions.

Peace and grace,

The Meyers
bridgescoalition@gmail.com