Family Violence Prevention Opens Anti-Human-Trafficking Center

“It’s a wonderful day to welcome this vital new resource to our community,” said BACC COO Jamie Rayford. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of the Anti-Human-Trafficking Resource Center, hosted by Family Violence Prevention, an organization that plays a crucial role in preventing and healing the wounds caused by violence in our community.”

“We want to raise awareness about this horrendous crime happening right before our eyes,” said Anti-Human-Trafficking Specialist Marilee House. “This center is open to the community, and we hope to offer a safe place for those in need.”

The center aims to provide a sanctuary for human trafficking victims to recover and heal. One key feature of the center is the “soft room”—a calming, comfortable space designed to help victims feel safe and at ease.

“Victims can come in and not feel like they’re being scrutinized or judged,” House explained. “A comforting environment makes it easier for them to recall events and share their stories.”

Family Violence Prevention’s Anti-Human-Trafficking Resource Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The center offers advocacy, resources, and shelter to individuals in need.

Ambassadors in attendance included: Silje Antonsen (Venture Realty Group), Amy Crouch-Howard (Weichert, Realtor - The Property Shoppe), Katelyn Holt (Family Chiropractic Care), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Cassidy Mitchell (Lyon College), Roxanne Ranaudo (Family Violence Prevention), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Lori Tacker (Batesville Eye Care Center), Tiffany Traw (University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville), Christina Watts (LaCroix Precision Optics), Sydney Wood (Main Street Batesville).