As the featured charitable organization of the month for January 2021, Tax Collector Mike Fasano has chosen to team with Bridging Freedom, an organization dedicated to ending human trafficking and assisting survivors of that crime. Human trafficking is a pervasive and often “invisible” criminal operation. Bridging Freedom’s mission is to combat minor sex-trafficking by bringing restoration to those rescued and victim prevention to those who learn about the horrors of human trafficking. Bridging Freedom educates the community and works with partners in the community to increase awareness of this unconscionable issue.
“Human Trafficking is a $150 billion dollar per year criminal enterprise creating millions of victims that takes an enormous toll on our kids,” comments Board Chairman Alan Wilkett, retired Pasco Sheriff’s Office law enforcement officer. “Children, both girls and boys, have their childhoods stolen from them by traffickers and buyers. Bridging Freedom, a safe campus, restores those stolen childhoods with a safe environment, therapy, life skills and a caring community. This partnership with the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office helps to ensure the continuance of restoring – LIFE!”
During the month of January 2021, the Pasco Tax Collector’s Office will be accepting donations to help Bridging Freedom assist as many victims as possible. Also, educating the public, local businesses and others about the importance of recognizing human trafficking for the horrendous crime it is, is also a key component of this campaign.
“It is through the dedicated people who work for Bridging Freedom and other victim advocacy services that human and sex trafficking will ever come to an end,” remarks Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “Through the support of a generous public the victims who are forced to endure this life may one day be free to live as people should, without the bondage of trafficking. Please stop by any of our five offices and donate to help Bridging Freedom assist as many trapped children and adults as they can.”
For more information about this and other charitable campaigns supported by the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office please contact Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at (727) 847-8179. For more information about Bridging Freedom and the services this organization provides please contact Board Chairman Alan Wilkett at (813) 474-HOPE (4673).
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