The Richmond Region often is touted for its convenient location at the intersection of major interstate and transit systems – it’s good for business and supply chains, after all. But, this convenience also poses risk. Richmond is considered a high-risk area for human trafficking because of its location and proximity to major highways. Safe Harbor is fighting to do something about it
Safe Harbor is a nonprofit located in Henrico, and for the past 26 years, has provided shelter and resources to survivors of sexual and domestic violence and human trafficking. The organization supports 1,200 survivors a year through its four shelter locations and suite of community services – like therapeutic counseling, intensive case management and court accompaniment.
Last year, Capital News Service reported human trafficking cases were on the rise in Virginia, with signals, or tips, hitting a seven-year high in 2024. That year, the National Human Trafficking Hotline received 661 signals, or tips, of trafficking. While the number of signals decreased in 2025 to 533, there is still work to be done to build awareness about the issue.
Which is where a survivor named S comes in.
Personal Passion Turns into Major Impact
Years ago, S faced unimaginable tragedy when she lost her brother. Her father became emotionally distant as he worked through his own grief, which left S desperate to feel wanted and loved. Eventually, a man came into her life who made her feel important. That relationship led to drug addiction, physical abuse and human trafficking. After she was arrested which she says saved her life, S found Safe Harbor.
Part of Safe Harbor’s human trafficking program focuses on vocational development, meaning the staff works with the women in the residential program to build skills to help lead to employment opportunities. As a participant in the program, S had the idea to host a walk to bring people together and build awareness and support for survivors.
“That was nine years ago,” said Mary Maupai, executive director of Safe Harbor. “This was her idea, and we rallied around her to help put the walk on. We were excited, but didn’t expect grand things. We were just happy to give her the tools and help her.”
In the inaugural Walk to End It, S’s idea yielded $12,000 in donations.
“The Walk to End It has become her legacy,” Maupai said.
Walk to End It Fundraiser
The Walk to End It has become a way for community members to come together and show solidarity and support to survivors of human trafficking. The walk is about three miles long, on a closed loop track. To participate, you can create a fundraising page and build a team to help raise funds. Proceeds support the human trafficking program at Safe Harbor – which accounts for over a third of Safe Harbor’s operating budget due to 24/7 staffed security at shelters and staff and counselors who are trained to help survivors navigate complex traumas.
This year’s walk takes place on Sept. 26 at Libbie Mill Pier at 9 a.m. The walk is free for participants. This event helps keep services free of charge for survivors.
“Joining the walk is a great way to bring friends, families and coworkers together,” Maupai said. “It’s a great way to start a Saturday morning and bring awareness to an issue that people don’t really have.”
To join the walk and start fundraising, visit the Walk to End It registration page. To learn more about Safe Harbor and its services, visit its website or follow it on social media.
