The Orleans County Department of Social Services’ Safe Harbour Program has announced the winners of its poster contest for students in grades 7-12 to raise awareness on the issue of human trafficking.  The theme was “Spot the Signs – Stop the Traffick.”  Three winners were chosen.

“We were so impressed by the number and quality of posters we received from students across Orleans County for this year’s contest, more than double from last year,” said Cynthia Stumer, Orleans County Deputy Commissioner of Social Services and the Safe Harbour Coordinator.  “Students got very creative in helping draw attention to the signs of trafficking and exploitation.

The winners were Michael Girangaya, 1st place, Holley; Inez Stangler, 2nd place, Kendall; and Kelli Dingle, 3rd place, Albion.

The Safe Harbour program is designed to be a safe place for teens and young adults (12-21 years of age). In addition to providing education and awareness on sex trafficking, sexual exploitation and healthy relationships, Safe Harbour provides lessons in life skills to promote a strong foundation to help children launch into their future.  For more information on Safe Harbour or how you can get your child involved in the program, email SafeHarbour@orleanscountyny.gov or contact Heather Jackson at DSS at heather.jackson@orleanscountyny.gov or (585) 589-2837.

If you suspect that a child or adult is being trafficked, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.

Photo 1: (Left) Teresa Zwifka-Elam Director of Services, Liana Sheffer CFS Supervisor, Michael Girangaya 1st Place winner in Orleans County Safe Harbour Poster Contest; Inez Stangler 2nd Place winner; Kelli Dingle 3rd Place winner; Heather Jackson, Safe/Harbour/Human Trafficking liaison; and Cynthia Stumer Orleans County Deputy Commissioner/Safe Harbour Coordinator.

Photo 2 1st Place winner Michael Girangaya