Clothing line helping fight human trafficking

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- At Made for Them, clothes are used to help mostly women who are victims of human trafficking. Each article of clothing tells a story. Andrea Shabaglian is the founder of the non-profit that's using fashion to fund a service for those often forgotten, or even shunned. Among those she is reaching out to women being used as sex slaves and trafficked on the streets.

"For us, fashion was just a vehicle to bring attention to the cause, to bring awareness about human trafficking and to get in the face of people. Where maybe ignorance is bliss and to say, this matters, these are lives, we need to get connected."

Her colorful clothing line with a purpose provides services locally. Things like counseling and therapeutic activities for those who are ready to move on from the scarring experience.

"It's a patient process sometimes, and it's a long journey for these women, but our goal is to be there every step of the way no matter how long they need us," said Shabaglian.

After five years in business, earlier this year the company finally fund raised enough to hire the first case manager.

"It's been great, as well being able to connect with the clients and just being able to be there and be like this is what I can do for you at the moment. What else is there that I can support you on, or these are the services that can help you recover towards self-sufficiency or empower you," said Jesica Uriostegui, 'Made For Them' Case Worker.

Consumers of the clothing line and cause will notice each item sold includes a tag that shares either a story of a survivor or statistic.

Tuesday at the Central California Women's Conference shoppers heard about the mission behind the brand.

'Made for Them' turns profits into outreach and helping guide and integrate victims back into the world in a positive way. 'Made for Them' is also unveiling a new handmade soap line made by survivors. It is just one of the healing opportunities available.ble.