Annual 'She's My Sister Walk/Run' aims to shine light on human trafficking in Philly

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The 13th annual She's My Sister Walk/Run will take place Saturday in Philadelphia, bringing hundreds of participants together to bring attention to a hidden crime lurking in neighborhoods: human trafficking.

Philadelphia has more cases than any other city in the state.

"And the reason for it is that we have buses, trains, planes, boats, the I-95 corridor. That's an easy way to transport persons, right, from one place, one state to the other state. Human trafficking, plainly put, is modern-day slavery," said Francina Pendergrass, executive director of Hannah's House, an emergency shelter for survivors of human trafficking.

Hannah's House provides services for survivors including trauma-informed counseling, food, clothing, medical care and emotional support.

Proceeds from the walk/run will benefit Hannah's House and programs operated by the Salvation Army. The event is spearheaded by Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church.

Every step helps fulfill a purpose.

"We let the public know that we are still standing in solidarity for human trafficking survivors. We let the traffickers know that, hey, we're here, we're strong, we're watching you. We're watching you in our neighborhoods, in the malls, schools, wherever there's public gatherings," Pendergrass said.

The She's My Sister Walk/Run begins at 7:30 a.m. Saturday at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church's West Campus, located at 230 West Coulter St.

Organizers say registration remains open for those who wish to participate and support the cause.