It’s almost spring, the time to bloom – in more ways than one.

While fragrant florals will soon burst open to beautify the landscape, Bloom for Women, Inc. – a faith-based nonprofit organization with the mission of providing sanctuary and a continuum of care to heal, empower and employ survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation in the Lehigh Valley — is gearing up to host its second annual Join the Movement Luncheon March 14 at Hotel Bethlehem.

“This is not just another luncheon — it’s a call to action,” Carol Anderson, CEO of Bloom, said. “Trafficking thrives in silence, and we refuse to look the other way. The survivors we serve are reclaiming their lives, but they shouldn’t have to do it alone. It’s time for all of us to stand together and say, ‘not on our watch.’

“We all have a role to play in ending human trafficking,” Anderson said. “This event will challenge, inspire and equip you with the tools to make a difference. Together, we can build a community where no one is exploited, and every survivor has a path to restoration.”

Leaders, advocates and community members will gather at this powerful event dedicated to disrupting human trafficking and exploitation and fostering real change in the Lehigh Valley.

The luncheon will feature two panel discussions: one with system professionals working in the anti-trafficking space and another highlighting the resilience and strength of survivors.

The event is an opportunity for attendees to gain deeper insight into both the systemic challenges and the personal journeys of those affected by trafficking and exploitation. By bridging the gap between professionals, policymakers and survivors, the luncheon aims to inspire actionable solutions and community collaboration.

Attendees will hear firsthand accounts of survival and resilience from a Survivor Leader panel, as well as expert insights into the policies, partnerships and resources needed to dismantle trafficking across the Lehigh Valley and support those on the path to healing.

The system/provider panelists include: Special Agent Sean Crawford, Homeland Security Investigations; Josh Newland, Valley Health Partners Street Medicine Program; Jana Morris, Recovery Revolution Inc.; Dr. Nicole Bendock, St. Luke’s University Health Network; and Christina DiPierro, Valley Youth House.

Bloom will also hold a clothing drive at the event for one of its two social enterprises, My Sister’s Closet, a women’s charity boutique based in Bethlehem providing curated and preloved clothing and accessories, as well as employment opportunities for survivors, community volunteer opportunities and financial support for Bloom. Spring and summer women’s clothing, purses and jewelry will be accepted.

As part of its mission, Bloom offers emergency response, a two-year residential program, pregnant and parenting survivor services and an independent living program in the Lehigh Valley area.

Bloom follows the model and is a sister community of the remarkably successful Thistle Farms Nashville program.

Bloom offers direct-to-survivor outreach, community education and prevention services, including serving male, children and youth survivors.

In addition, the Bangor-based Bloom Creative Studio is a social enterprise to leverage art as a healing tool and provide employment opportunities for survivors.

To learn more about Bloom, visit bloomforwomen.com/.