An organization founded by a Catholic women’s religious order was recognized Thursday for its efforts to combat human trafficking in western Massachusetts.
Four members of the Sisters of St. Joseph’s Justice and Peace Committee were honored by the Springfield Women’s Commission at an annual International Women’s Day ceremony.
Sister Denise Granger said the group formed in 2005 to raise public awareness about human trafficking.
"The thing that really kicked it off was when Springfield was going to open a casino and open a brand new bus station," said Granger. "Bus stations are notorious hubs for runaways and spotters who would be interested in trafficking those runaways."
The committee is planning a major conference in Springfield in September on human trafficking.
