WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — A local store owner is promoting commerce with a cause this holiday season in an effort to stop human trafficking.
Shoppe 561owner Janelle Lang ditched corporate America five years ago to open her West Palm Beach store.
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“I think one of the most amazing things I’ve been learning is just how much people want to feel connected to the product that they are buying,” said Lang.
She curates all of the products herself and focuses on artists and companies who give back to charities.
“We say shop local every day of the year and ensure that your purchases are making a difference,” said Lang.
Some of the items at the store, like makeup bags, are made by trafficking victims, while others give a portion of all sales to the cause.
Human trafficking is a cause Lang is extremely passionate about.
“Everyone needs to be aware of it, and they need to be talking to their children, educating their children and making sure they are kept safe,” said Lang.
New numbers from the Human Trafficking Hotline show nearly 400 cases reported in Florida for 2018.
Shoppe 561 donates thousands of dollars each year to Place of Hope, which provides education, recovery services and prevention information for its human trafficking initiative.