TITLE: Recognizing Bob's House of Hope in Argyle for its work in assisting victims of human trafficking.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Bob's House of Hope in Argyle for its work in assisting victims of human trafficking.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Bob's House of Hope in Argyle has rendered exceptional service to the North Texas community by providing holistic and compassionate care to victims of human trafficking; and WHEREAS, Opened in 2021 by Robert "Bob" Williams, Bob's House of Hope is the first safe house in the country for 18-and-older male-identifying survivors of sex trafficking; it is a program of Ranch Hands Rescue, which Mr. Williams oversees as founder and chief executive officer; the residential facility offers equine-and animal-assisted counseling and trauma-informed therapy for individuals who have been sexually abused, and its other services include psychiatric and psychological evaluations, medical care, educational and vocational assistance, case management, mentorship, and life skills training; and WHEREAS, Human trafficking is a public health issue and crime that affects individuals, families, and communities across generations, exploiting the most vulnerable and weakening our collective well-being; it has been reported that men and boys represent nearly half of the total number of human trafficking victims worldwide, but the identification and care of these victims remains an enormous challenge for governments and care providers; and WHEREAS, Mr. Williams previously served on the human trafficking task forces for the offices of the governor of Texas and the Texas attorney general; since learning of the gap in information and resources regarding male sex trafficking victims, he has devoted himself to addressing those shortfalls as well as the stigmas that often create barriers to the help that these individuals need; and WHEREAS, Through its efforts to provide a comprehensive and individualized response to human trafficking, Bob's House of Hope is helping victims to live happy, healthy, and productive lives; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby commend Bob's House of Hope for its exceptional work in providing care and resources to human trafficking victims and extend to all those associated with the program sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Bob's House of Hope as an expression of high regard by the Texas Senate.