January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time to reflect on how our communities can combat this deeply troubling issue. For Ardsley Park resident and dedicated advocate, Julie Wade, that mission is at the heart of her work as the Executive Director of Tharros Place, Chatham County's first residential facility for survivors of human trafficking, specifically for girls aged 12 to 17.

Tharros Place, whose name means "courage" in Greek, was born out of a critical need for local services for trafficked youth. As [Insert Name] explained, “Before Tharros Place, there were no placements for survivors within 90 miles of Chatham County.” With Chatham County ranking sixth in the state for reported cases of minor trafficking in 2023, the need for a safe and nurturing space for survivors has never been more urgent.

Tharros Place offers a lifeline to young girls who have been trafficked, many of whom are victims of people they know and trust, such as family members, friends, or romantic partners. The 12-bed facility provides 24/7 care, mental health counseling, education, and life skills training tailored to each girl’s unique needs. Residents typically stay for about a year, receiving the support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.

“Trafficked youth often experience homelessness and trade basic needs like food or shelter for sexual acts, making them victims of trafficking,” Julie shared. Her experience as Executive Director of Park Place Outreach, Savannah’s youth emergency shelter, revealed the clear intersection of homelessness and trafficking, which inspired her to launch Tharros Place in 2022. The facility officially opened in December 2023, and its impact is already significant.

Community Involvement

Working for a nonprofit, as Julie says, “is a family affair.” Her husband and children are often hands-on, from setting up events to assembling furniture donated by IKEA and Wayfair to ready the facility for its opening.

For neighbors in Ardsley Park looking to make a difference, Tharros Place offers numerous opportunities to get involved. While financial donations are essential, there are many other ways to help. The organization is always in need of basic household supplies, volunteers, tutors, and in-kind donations. Community members can also support by attending events or helping spread awareness. “Education is a major protective factor against human trafficking,” she emphasized.

Having called Savannah home since 2006, Julie and her family have made Ardsley Park the center of their lives. “We love being able to bike and walk everywhere,” she said, reflecting on the neighborhood’s charm and its growth over the years. Her children’s time at Jacob G. Smith Elementary deepened their connection to the community, and she continues to cherish the small-town neighborhood feel Ardsley Park retains amidst Savannah’s growth.

National Human Trafficking Awareness Month reminds us of the power of community in addressing the issue. Tharros Place stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, showing how one organization—and one neighborhood—can make a difference. To learn more about supporting Tharros Place, visit www.tharrosplace.com. Together, we can create a safer, more informed community.