January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Advocates for victims gathered Thursday at the state capitol. They are urging lawmakers to pass major reforms.

East Texas residents, along with local organizations, gathered for a prayer event to raise awareness and show support for victims of human trafficking, asking for protection, healing and justice for those affected.

East Texas nonprofits are raising awareness during National Human Trafficking Prevention month this January. Local nonprofits including Unbound Now, Selah Life Choices and 4Kids4Families all share the same mission to help human trafficking victims in a time of need.