LEXINGTON, Ky. — Natalie's Sisters, a refuge for women who have or are being exploited and/or trafficked, collects donations such as clothing, food or hygiene items throughout the year.
Devin Penn, a housing specialist who started as a student volunteering with the organization, said heavy winter gear at its outreach center is in demand.
“[It's] something that we are low on right now," Penn said. "Also, the heavier winter coats, that's something that we need because we give those out pretty frequently."
The group gives out blankets twice a week and can provide for anywhere from 40 to 60 women or more. Other days include handing out meals through its kitchen. The organization is now stocking up ahead of the new year and colder days, with January being National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Specific donations the group is collecting include winter coats, shirts, leggings, socks, shoes and brand-new underwear.
"People's minds are on the problem, and we can get the word out about what's going on in Lexington," said executive director Jani Lewis, who has been with Natalie's Sisters for 20 years. "Then we can use that as a wraparound to collect some specific items that we need for the winter."
Last year, service donations were collected through local businesses. This year’s drop-off is expanding to the community, and people are encouraged to participate with groups, churches, offices, and more.
Lewis said the biggest outreach for its efforts is through awareness and informing people of the reality of the issues these women face.
“There's so many people that we talk to that have no idea that there's any trafficking or exploitation even happening here in Lexington," she said. "It is everywhere.”