Human Trafficking Foundation, community businesses leaders, and concerned citizens came together for the 8^th annual Light Up the Night to focus a spotlight on Human Trafficking; the exploitation of human beings for commercial sex, forced labor or involuntary servitude. Human Trafficking is the second largest criminal enterprise worldwide, ranking only behind illegal drugs and netting billions of dollars annually.

The Human Trafficking Foundation raises funds to provide community awareness and support for organizations which house, clothe, help victims escape, and provide fundamental daily living skills. Donations go to vetted and qualified direct service organizations working in the areas of rescue, recovery, and advocacy.

This year The Human Trafficking Foundation distributed seven checks to, the U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking $4,500; Advocates Against Human Trafficking $1,000; Bridging Freedom $4,500; Justice Restoration Center $2,500; Priceless Journey $1,000; Victims 2 Survivors $2,500; Door of Hope $1,000.

Sponsored by the David Maus Foundation, Light Up the Night featured live music, educational materials, survivor testimonies, vendors, a kid’s zone, candlelight vigil and more.

Leadership Team included: Alan Wilkett, Chairman, The Human Trafficking Foundation.

Bill Cronin, Vice Chairman – Pasco EDC; DeeDee Larreau, Treasurer, The Human Trafficking Foundation; Anna Manning, CAMS, CFE, Secretary – Raymond James & Associates, Sarah Rosario, Advisory Member, CBS Tampa, 10 News, Jim Larreau, Advisory Member; Chick-fil-A Wesley Chapel, Pippa Greenberg, Advisory Member; Next Machine, Michelle Rector, Advisory Member – Raymond James & Associates, Laura Raigoza, Advisory Member, rapid! PayCard, Danielle Pinter, Advisory Member, National Center on Sexual Exploitation; Debbie Detweiler, Advisory Member, The Shops at Wiregrass.

About The Shops at Wiregrass:

The Shops at Wiregrass is a premier, open-air lifestyle and retail center located in Wesley Chapel, Florida. It is a main-street style, pet-friendly, and pedestrian friendly center. Just a few minutes from Tampa’s major attractions, we have something for everyone to enjoy. The Shops at Wiregrass features Macy's, Dillard's, JCPenney and 100 specialty shops, restaurants, and services. Shop your favorite brands and discover new ones, all while sporting the hottest trends. If you get hungry, we offer a range of dining options for every craving.

Signature events include Symphony in Lights holiday extravaganza and tree lighting, Cruisin’ at Wiregrass Car & Truck Show, The Fresh Market, Spring & Fall Fair, Artisan Street Market, and more. For more information, visit The Shops at Wiregrass events page.

Whether you’re here for a short visit or this is your home away from home, we hope to see you soon!

Guest Services is located in Center Court across from Macy’s, and offers the following amenities and services. Please feel free to contact us at (813) 994-2242 with any questions.