EDITOR:

One year ago, the Georgia General Assembly passed a groundbreaking trafficking law, House Bill 200, which toughened the penalty for human traffickers. Additionally, a component of the law provided for new resources and services for victims.

Thanks to HB 200, Georgia has seen increased awareness of the issue and there has been an increase in compassion and advocacy for victims from both law enforcement and the community. Even though awareness is up, organizations providing resources and services to victims still need your help. Atlanta is among the top 10 cities nationwide for human trafficking. The Georgia Asylum and Immigration Network, a nonprofit established in 2006, has been able to assist men and women who are victims of trafficking. Through volunteer attorneys, GAIN provides pro bono legal services to immigrant victims of crime, helping them legalize their immigration status while cooperating with law enforcement in the prosecution of these cases.

Last year, GAIN assisted 250 victims of crime, including human trafficking. This number is small, however, in comparison to the large number of victims who are still in desperate need of help. On July 19, we ask you to join us as GAIN celebrates survivors of this crime by hosting its second fundraiser at Woodruff Arts Center. More information about this event, including volunteer and donation information, can be found at www.georgiaasylum.org.

Monica Khant

Program manager, GAIN



Tracie Klinke

Socheat Chea attorney and GAIN board member