JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Sex trafficking is a heartbreaking reality that impacts millions worldwide — and Florida ranks third in the nation for reported cases.
But here in Jacksonville, nonprofits are working to break that cycle and bring hope to survivors.
This month’s Positively JAX award goes to The DEMP Project, a faith-based organization dedicated to helping victims of sex trafficking and their families rebuild their lives.
Since 2015, DEMP has provided safe housing, life coaching, job training, and essentials to help survivors start fresh. For many women, that support has meant the difference between life and death.
One survivor, who asked not to be identified, shared her powerful story.
“I was just in the streets, and I don’t really know how I got there. Eventually, when I would want to stop, it would keep going and keep going… I started losing my stability, and things went downhill. I remember being missing, and nobody knew where I was. They had my car, my purse, my body — everything. I was somewhere no police would come looking. That was life or death for me.”
With help from DEMP, she says her life has completely changed.
“If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’ve had my job for years now, my own place, and I’m doing really good. They help you with that.”
Shannon Bergemann with The DEMP Project says her own daughter inspired her to act when she learned the average age of trafficking victims is just 11 to 13 years old.
“There was such a hunger inside me to help women who have been trafficked that I just knew I had to do something,” Barnett said. “At the end of the day, we’re here for survivors — to walk with them and help them make something of themselves.”
The DEMP Project also operates a resource center, food pantry, and House of Grace transitional home. Their outreach even includes a strip club ministry — all aimed at meeting women where they are and showing them compassion.
Shanna Henley with The DEMP Project says it all comes down to love and community.
“There’s so much empathy for these girls, because by the time they come to us, they’re done. They don’t want to keep living the way they’re living. They want something new. I know what God did for me, and I know the difference people can make when they come around you with love.”
Celebration of Love Event
The DEMP Project is inviting any survivors and their loved ones to their 9th Celebration of Love, a free event designed to honor and uplift those on their healing journey.
📅 Date: Saturday, Sept. 27
📍 Location: 7235 Bentley Road, Jacksonville
🕛 Time: Doors open at noon | Event runs 1–4 p.m.
💻 Register