Restoration 61 is Kiwanis guest

HARRISBURG - Harrisburg Kiwanis met at noon, July 14 at Morello's for the club's weekly meeting.

Sarah McHargue and Gayla Titsworth from Restoration 61 were the program presenters. Titsworth, program coordinator, explained that Restoration 61 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting human trafficking victims.

Since 2016, 2,000 women have been assisted by the program.

Although most of their clients are women, men and transgender individuals have also been served. In southern Illinois, 34 counties are in this service division, according to Titsworth. There are currently seven victims from the immediate area who are being served by Restoration 61 including clients from Carbondale, Harrisburg and Anna.

The program provides emergency housing, transportation, health care needs, counseling and other restorative services. The goal is to "offer hope to individuals exploited through trafficking, empowering them to lead lives of freedom." The program is funded through grants, corporate donations and individuals. As is the case with many not-for-profit organizations, volunteers are needed and welcomed. For more information email gayla.t@restoration61.org or sarah.n@restoration61.org.