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Stuart proclaims Human Trafficking Awareness Month; local groups outline training and pilot with police

City of Stuart Commission · February 9, 2026
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Summary

Mayor Christopher Collins declared January 2026 Human Trafficking Awareness Month; Lynn Barletta’s You Act group and partners described prevention training, a local pilot with Stuart Police Department, and outreach work that organizers say contributed to arrests and rescues on the Treasure Coast.

Mayor Christopher Collins read a proclamation declaring January 2026 Human Trafficking Awareness Month for the City of Stuart and affixed the city seal.

Lynn Barletta, founder and CEO of You Act (formerly Florida Faith Alliance), thanked the commission for support and described the group's local work. Barletta said the organization has completed more than 21 proclamations in two years, delivered anti‑exploitation training accepted by Martin County and Indian River School Districts, and runs art restoration and prevention programs she called the Power of Art and Don't Take the Bait.

"We bring awareness of child trafficking in 5 counties with plans to go statewide, and we work with local law enforcement," Barletta said, noting partnerships and arrests on the Treasure Coast. Mark Manning, chief operating officer for UAT, highlighted the role of new online platforms and automated tools that predators use and urged parents and community members to engage in monitoring and reporting.

James Billig described a UAC Blue Task Force training program that begins with a 90‑minute officer training block and continues with monthly real‑time intelligence updates; he invited commission members and staff to attend a pilot training with the Stuart Police Department the next day. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the local partnership and pledged continued cooperation.

Organizers said their training and outreach are free to municipalities and include specialized programs for seniors and other vulnerable populations.

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