July 5, 2022

Libraries post human trafficking info

Libraries post human trafficking info

In an effort to combat human trafficking, the Chester County Sheriff’s office and county libraries are posting signs in library bathrooms with the phone number for the National Human Trafficking Hotline. The signs will be in the bathroom stalls of libraries across the county. The information has been posted from the beginning of July – the month that includes World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, July 30.

During an online program hosted by Chester County’s Henrietta Hankin Library, in which human trafficking-survivor Ann Marie Jones, Chester County Sheriff Fredda Maddox, and Carol Metzker, community outreach for the sheriff’s office and survivor-ally, discussed local human trafficking, Jones described her ordeal. She had experienced homelessness as her trafficker held her through psychological and trauma bonding. She frequented public restrooms—at fast-food restaurants, parks, and even a hospital lobby—to bathe in the sink.

Signs with information and the National Human Trafficking Hotline in English and Spanish are being posted in libraries throughout Chester County in advance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

At the end of the program Laura Presby, a reference librarian at Hankin Library, asked Jones a question. “If you were in a library during the period of time you were trafficked and you saw a sign with the human trafficking hotline in the bathroom, would you have called it?”

“If I had a cell phone, then I think I would have,” replied Jones.

The conversation led to the joint efforts of the Chester County Sheriff’s Office and local libraries to post the National Human Trafficking Hotline in library bathroom stalls.

“The best protection is prevention. But as a community, the more informed we are about indicators for human trafficking and where to report tips, the better we can help individuals who need a way out,” Maddox said.

“The library is more than books and computers – it’s a place for vital information on many subjects presented in many formats. Offering resources about human trafficking to inform the public and help prevent it from happening is important,” said Joe Sherwood, executive director of the Chester County Library System.

Although PA Act 197—the hotline posting law—requires that the National Human Trafficking Hotline be posted in transportation stations, rest areas, truck stops, and certain bars and hotels, publicizing the information is voluntary for other establishments.

The hotline is run by Polaris and connects with law enforcement agencies in all areas of the United States. Call the hotline to report tips for suspected cases, ask questions, and request resources: 1-888-3737-888 or text 233733 (BeFree). Calls can

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William Eric Dickinson Sr. of Hockessin

William Eric Dickinson Sr., 76, of Hockessin, died Friday, June 24 at his home with his family by his side. He was born on March 8, 1946, to the late Harold and Margaret Dickinson, in West Grove, PA. He was the eldest of four children.

William Eric Dickinson Sr.

William graduated from Avon Grove High School in 1964. While in school, William was an exceptional student and an outstanding athlete excelling in track & field. After graduation William enlisted in the United States Army in 1964 serving four years. While serving his country, William was deployed to Germany and was a radio repair specialist. He was honorably discharged in 1968.

William met the love of his life Flossie in the summer of 1964 at the Oxford carnival leaving him speechless for the first and only time in his life and would later wed on Jan. 27, 1968. They celebrated 54 years of undying love in January of 2022. To their union, they have two amazing children Renee Trenace, and William Eric Jr.

William was employed at DuPont Chemicals Company for 25 years as managing sales director, before retiring in 1993. Upon his retirement from DuPont, William worked for Delaware Blueprint before eventually acquiring the business and becoming the sole operating owner. Most recently, William worked part-time at Nichols & Associates, CPA in Wilmington, DE.

William began his spiritual journey at Christ Temple Church in Kennett Square. He was baptized in Jesus’ name and received the Holy Ghost. He became an ordained deacon under the mentorship of Deacon Everett Butcher and became a beloved young adult Sunday school teacher. Being obedient to the voice of the Lord, William founded the Fellowship Hope Church of Middletown, DEel. in 2002.

In October of 1972, William became a member of the prestigious DuPont Country Club of Wilmington. Here he learned golf was not a game of being perfect but only a game that could only be played but never won. His persistence to be better and love for the game made him a fierce competitor and worthy opponent to all his peers.

William, also known to some as Bill, Uncle Bill, a hero, was a gift to the world and will live forever in our hearts. His infectious smile and inviting personality brought warmth and joy to all he encountered. William was a self-driven, motivated man that worked hard to achieve any goal he set forth. He was meticulous and his attention to detail was thorough for every project. He had an amazing ability to brighten your day with a compliment or share his wisdom with anyone who needed advice. He was very well respected and was influential throughout his circles of family and friends.

William showed great appreciation for life and all it had to offer. The legacy that he leaves encompasses Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” William enjoyed spending time with his family and spreading love through the Word of God.

He was predeceased by his parents, Harold Oscar and Margaret M. Dickinson.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 54 years Florence L. Dickinson, his daughter Renee T. Dickinson Mamouzette (Woody) of Livingston, N.J., his son William E. Dickinson, Jr. (Jennifer) of Lancaster, S.C.; grandchildren, Jordan Mamouzette, Sean Mamouzette, Mya Mamouzette of Livingston, N.J.; Sisters, Ida Reeves of West Grove, Shirley Alston of Exton, and brother Harold Dickinson Jr. (Betty) of Bear, Del.; in-laws Samuel L. Reeves (Helen) of Avondale, Elisie Reeves of Oxford, Richard H. Reeves of Rising Sun, Md., James R. Reeves (Donna) of Glen Mills, and Wanda Reeves of Wilmington.

William was predeceased by Joseph Reeves, Paul Reeves, Guy Reeves and Robert Reeves and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Arrangements by the Kuzo Funeral Home, Kennett Square; please visit Mr. Dickinson’s online memorial by going to www.kuzoandfoulkfh.com.

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Photo of the Week: Afloat on the Fourth

Afloat on the Fourth

A group of tubers enjoys a gentle float down the Brandywine.  The creek was a hot spot to cool off for many during the holiday weekend.

About Rich Schwartzman

Rich Schwartzman has been reporting on events in the greater Chadds Ford area since September 2001 when he became the founding editor of The Chadds Ford Post. In April 2009 he became managing editor of ChaddsFordLive. He is also an award-winning photographer.

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