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CAPE Attends NOVA's Panel to Combat Human Trafficking

Panel members of the NOVA event


On January 29th, the Bucks County Coalition Against Trafficking – a subset of Network of Victim’s Assistance (NOVA Bucks) held a panel to discuss the public health issue of Human Trafficking right here in Bucks County.

Present at the panel was Chief Deputy Attorney General Heather Castellino, Chief Nelson Whitney of Falls Township Police, Lieutenant Christopher Clark of Falls Township Police, NOVA Victim Advocate Danielle DiUlio, Deputy District Attorney Kristin McElroy, and the amazing survivor who was willing to speak out. Participants were able to ask questions and hear about the rise of cases in Bucks County, how they are being handled, and the first hand experience of someone who is a survivor of Human Trafficking.

When people think of Human Trafficking they think of “overseas” or “this does not happen here.” But the reality is, Human Trafficking is right here in our backyards and often “hidden in plain sight.” Human Trafficking cases in Bucks County are on the rise with hot spots often being hotels and motels, massage parlors and through the use of high-tech apps. Human Trafficking does not discriminate against one race, one culture, one gender, or one sexual orientation, it can happen to anyone.

Bucks County has taken a stand on prosecuting cases and helping survivors. The Bucks County Coalition Against Trafficking (BCAT) has been fundamental in giving survivors a second chance and helping them to safety. The District Attorneys Office and Law Enforcement have played a significant role in the take down of many “stings” across the County. A new law in PA is now requiring all hotels, motels, Air BNBs, and VRBOS to be trained on the warning signs of Human Trafficking.

Human Trafficking is an everyone problem – meaning we all have the duty to recognize warning signs, know what resources are available, and be an ally to those who may be struggling. Contact Kate Coffey in the CAPE office for more information about Trafficking and how you can help.

Kate Coffey
Director of Campus Advocacy, Prevention, and Education
Kate Coffey headshot

I am the Director of Campus Advocacy, Prevention, and Education (CAPE) on campus. My office is dedicated to the prevention, advocacy and education surrounding Sexual Assault, Domestic/Dating Violence, and Stalking. CAPE is a resource for everyone in the Holy Family community. I have been at Holy Family for almost two years.

I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania and a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice from Holy Family University. I have spent majority of my career working in forensics, with both survivors and perpetrators of gender-based violence.  

I am passionate about being an advocate and a resource for those who may not have found their voice yet. My approach on campus is simple — have brave conversations about difficult topics that can ultimately foster a culture of consent and safety. Helping people realize their full potential and believing in second chances is what drives me to do the work every day.  

Outside of work I enjoy kickboxing, music, sneakers, and all Philly sports!