Human Trafficking Prevention Month: Stronger Connections. Stronger Futures.
January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time to rase awareness and take action to prevent human trafficking in our communities. This year’s theme, “Stronger Connections. Stronger Futures.” reminds us that our everyday connections play a vital role in preventing human trafficking. Strong, supportive relationships at home, at work, and in our communities help protect people from human trafficking and other forms of abuse. When individuals are supported, valued, and connected to the community, it is harder for traffickers to isolate, manipulate, or control them. Family members, friends, coworkers, and community members can notice when something doesn’t seem right and help connect people to support and resources.
Throughout January, be intentional about deepening connections with people in your daily life – check in, listen, and build trust. Together we can help create a future free from human trafficking.
How you can engage this month:
– Share information about Human Trafficking Prevention Month with your networks.
– Promote resources that support safety, stability, and well-being.
– Encourage conversations with children and youth about human trafficking, healthy relationships, safe boundaries, and finding the right balance between screen time and time with family and friends.
Stay informed throughout January by visiting the Office of Trafficking in Persons’ website for news, resources and events, or view our Safe Harbour page.
January is Poverty Awareness Month
Catholic teaching urges that we continually call on our elected officials to prioritize policies that protect the poor and most vulnerable. In 2025, the US Catholic Bishops addressed components of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act insisting that it will have ongoing and devastating consequences for the poorest people in our country. The federal bill cut funding for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) which will result in millions going hungry, while cuts to Medicaid could cause 10 million people to lose their health insurance over the next decade according to reports from the Congressional Budget Office.
One way we can stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in need is by advocating for just national policies. Challenge: Call our Congressman Nick Langworthy at (607) 377-3130 or contact him through his website and ask him to help lift vulnerable families out of poverty by strengthening food assistance and other federal safety net programs to ensure adequate funding for programs that promote the common good.
January Events:
January 28 – Fundraiser: Cheers for Charity – Lakeside Resort & 3812 Bistro
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Cheers for Charity: Join us at Lakeside Resort & 3812 Bistro in Watkins Glen, NY on January 28, 2026, for their monthly Food and Wine tasting series, held on the last Wednesday of each month at 5:30pm! This evening features a three-course tapas-style menu expertly paired with wines from a local winery, all while supporting Catholic Charities’ Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry! The cost is $45 per person, offering a wonderful opportunity to enjoy exceptional food and wine while giving back to the community!
February Events:
February 2 – Guthrie MOM Unit, 160 High Street, Elmira
9:00am – 4:00pm
Bags of HOPE: Consider organizing a Bags of HOPE drive for much-needed household items (cleaning supplies, pots/pans, vacuums). You can view our wishlist and purchase online as well.