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Each January, our nation recognizes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness ...
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NAPLES — Each January, our nation recognizes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, educate communities, and unite in the fight to end human trafficking. Path2Freedom, Inc. a Southwest Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to restoring the lives of child survivors, invites the community to stand together in hope, healing, and prevention.
Founded in 2015, Path2Freedom provides safe housing, trauma-informed care, education, and long-term recovery programs for girls ages 10–17 who have experienced the trauma of sex trafficking. Through its Magnolia House Safe Home and Magnolia Aftercare programs, Path2Freedom has provided over 8,000 safe nights of rest to 43 young female survivors to rebuild trust, rediscover their worth, and chart a new course toward freedom.
“Human trafficking is not a distant issue—it’s happening in our own backyard,” said Ana Stevenson, Founder and President of Path2Freedom. “Florida consistently ranks among the top three states for reported cases. Our mission is to ensure that every child survivor has a safe place to heal, learn, and thrive.”
According to the 2025 Florida Department of Children and Families Human Trafficking of Children Annual Report, 596 child victims of commercial sexual exploitation were identified across the state. Path2Freedom continues to expand its reach and resources to meet this urgent need—offering not only shelter but also individualized education, trauma-informed counseling, equine-assisted therapy, and spiritual growth opportunities.
Throughout January, Path2Freedom will share survivor-informed stories, educational resources, and opportunities for community members to engage. These include faith partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and a call to join the mission through giving or monthly support.
“Ending trafficking requires everyone,” said Jill Palmer, Director of Development. “Prevention starts with awareness—but restoration begins with action. Every prayer, every conversation, every gift makes a difference for the girls we serve.”
Community members are encouraged to follow Path2Freedom, Inc on social media throughout the month to learn, share, and take part in awareness initiatives.
To learn more, donate, or get involved, visit www.path2freedom.org.
About Path2Freedom, Inc: Path2Freedom, Inc. is a Southwest Florida–based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to creating hope and healing for child survivors of human trafficking. The organization was founded in 2015 by Ana Stevenson, whose personal conviction grew after learning about the widespread exploitation of children through the Florida Gulf Coast sex trade. After meeting one special young girl who had fallen victim to this rapidly growing criminal enterprise, Ana launched Path2Freedom and the Magnolia Model of care and services to provide hope and healing to rescued adolescent female sex trafficking survivors.
