February 27, 2025, LEHIGH VALLEY, PA – Bloom, an organization dedicated to providing sanctuary and a continuum of care to heal, empower and employ survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation in the Lehigh Valley, to host its Join the Movement Luncheon on Friday, March 14^th at Hotel Bethlehem. Leaders, advocates, and community members will gather at this powerful event dedicated to disrupting human trafficking and exploitation and fostering real change in the Lehigh Valley. This must-attend luncheon will feature two panel discussions: one with system professionals working in the anti-trafficking space and another highlighting the resilience and strength of survivors.

This event is an opportunity for attendees to gain deeper insight into both the systemic challenges and the personal journeys of those affected by trafficking and exploitation. By bridging the gap between professionals, policymakers, and survivors, the luncheon aims to inspire actionable solutions and community collaboration.

“This is not just another luncheon – it’s a call to action,” said Carol Andersen, CEO of Bloom. “Trafficking thrives in silence, and we refuse to look the other way. The survivors we serve are reclaiming their lives, but they shouldn’t have to do it alone. It’s time for all of us to stand together and say, ‘not on our watch’.”

Attendees will hear firsthand accounts of survival and resilience from a Survivor Leader panel; as well as expert insights into the policies, partnerships, and resources needed to dismantle trafficking across the Lehigh Valley and support those on the path to healing. The system/provider panelists include:

• Special Agent Sean Crawford, Homeland Security Investigations
• Josh Newland, CRS from Valley Health Partners Street Medicine Program
• Jana Morris, MS, LPC, CCS, CAADC, Recovery Revolution, Inc.
• Dr. Nicole Bendock, St. Luke’s University Health Network
• Christina DiPierro, Valley Youth House

At the event, Bloom will also be holding a clothing drive for one of its two social enterprises, My Sister’s Closet. This is a women’s charity boutique based in Bethlehem providing curated and preloved clothing and accessories, as well as employment opportunities for survivors, community volunteer opportunities, and financial support for Bloom. Spring and summer women’s clothing, purses and jewelry will be accepted.

Attendees may register by March 8 for the Join the Movement Luncheon by clicking here. Tickets are $45. All members of the press RSVP to Karen Higgins. 

About Bloom for Women

Bloom for Women, Inc. is a faith-based non-profit organization with the mission of providing sanctuary and a continuum of care to heal, empower and employ survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. As part of its mission, Bloom offers emergency response, a two-year residential program, pregnant and parenting survivor services, and an independent living program in the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania. Bloom follows the model and is a sister community of the remarkably successful Thistle Farms Nashville program. Additionally, Bloom offers direct-to-survivor outreach, community education and prevention services, including serving male, children and youth survivors. Furthermore, the Bloom Creative Studio, located in Bangor, Pa., is a social enterprise to leverage art as a healing tool and provide employment opportunities for survivors. Bloom also has a women’s charity boutique, My Sister’s Closet, based in Bethlehem, Pa., offering curated, pre-loved clothing and accessories; and providing employment for survivors, community volunteer opportunities, and financial support for the organization. To learn more about Bloom, visit: www.bloomforwomen.org.

 

Information provided to TVL by:
Karen Higgins