This Seattle Times story about an annual FBI and local law enforcement sweep rescuing young girls, some as young as 12, from street prostitution grabbed me.
This is the 5th year the FBI has led the sweep in dozens of cities across the nation. I'm hopeful even as I note that the small number of children they rescue - 69 from efforts over the weekend - is a drop in the bucket compared to the thousands of missing and exploited children nationwide, according to this center and the estimated 300-500 kids working the streets in King County.
I wrote this editorial for the Times opinion page. During my reporting I learned about a three-year pilot project offering young victims emergency shelter and other social services. Learn more about the City of Seattle 's program and if you care to, contribute to the Prostitute Children Rescue Fund.
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