Organizations looking to spread awareness on World Day Against Human Trafficking

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Thursday is World Day Against Human Trafficking.

This year the United Nations is focusing on first responders and their role in spotting human trafficking.

Doug Bennett from Magdalene Hope told 23ABC the numbers in Kern County are pretty staggering.

"750 to 1,000 different women are being sold through the course of a month just here in Bakersfield," he said. "Another misconception is that the women on Union Avenue are out there by choice."

Bennett said their studies show nine out of ten women on Union Avenue are not out there by choice, but that someone is forcing them and profiting off them.

Bennett wants to remind people that there is a shelter in Bakersfield that helps provide resources for those who are in that lifestyle. However, the non-profit said it needs help with maintaining the shelter and with future events.

A women's conference that aims at empowering women is happening in September and the Magdalene Hope golf tournament is set for November.