Good Day Kansas – Human Trafficking with Leah Cocchiola

In today’s Good Day Kansas segment, Leah, a Response Team Specialist with Saint Francis Ministries, sheds light on how the organization supports youth who have survived human trafficking. She addresses common misconceptions and explains that trafficking often involves coercion—through money, drugs, or basic necessities—to force individuals into sexual servitude. Leah and her team are on call around the clock to respond when law enforcement suspects a youth may be a victim. They conduct compassionate assessments to determine whether trafficking has occurred, asking questions about forced actions, withheld wages, or manipulation through substances. If trafficking is confirmed, Saint Francis Ministries connects youth with targeted therapies, safe placements, and ongoing support to help them heal and avoid re-victimization. Leah also emphasizes that foster youth—especially those who run from placement—are among the most vulnerable, making early intervention and wraparound care critically important.