Redeemed Ministries’ Efforts to Rescue Women Enslaved in Houston’s Commercial Sex Industry Get Big Boost

HOUSTON, Sept. 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Redeemed Ministries, which reaches out to victims of human trafficking, held its first benefit dinner—a successful fundraiser with more than 400 people in attendance.  The $40,000 raised will be used to help support their efforts in providing aftercare services to women rescued from exploitation in the commercial sex industry and continue their recovery, restoration and preparation for independent living.

"It's important to note that we owe these great accomplishments to the faithful service of our volunteers.  We are a 100% volunteer organization and rely completely on the support of individuals, churches and foundations," said Dennis Mark, Executive Director of Redeemed Ministries.

State Senator Dan Patrick spoke at the dinner and credited Redeemed Ministries for educating him on the human trafficking problem in his district.  Senator Patrick and State Representative Randy Weber, also in attendance, have worked with Redeemed Ministries to successfully champion many bills on human trafficking.  Also in attendance, Steve Toth, candidate for State House District 15, who has human trafficking as one of his platform focuses when elected in 2012.

As a result of the impact Redeemed Ministries is having, the Brian and Amelia Culwell Family Foundation  has decided to more than match the funds raised at the dinner, with a donation of $50,000, which will go directly to Redeemed Ministries' aftercare program.

"I was shocked to learn about the real problem of human trafficking in our community and state, the truth about the commercial sex industry and how close it is to our home," said Brian Culwell of the Brian and Amelia Culwell Family Foundation.  Co-founder Amelia Culwell added, "Our church has been a strong supporter of Redeemed Ministries, as has the faith based community.  We are grateful that we could support an organization that is standing up and fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves."

Redeemed Ministries, founded in 2005, serves to bring Christ's loving redemption and amazing liberation to those trapped and exploited within the commercial sex industry and/or by human trafficking for sexual exploitation or forced labor.

For more information, visit www.redeemedministries.com

SOURCE Redeemed Ministries