2026 Past Events
May 2026
Run For the Roses
The St. Timothy SOS Ministries’ 3rd Annual Run For the Roses on May 2nd was a beautiful and fun afternoon! The venue embraced the Kentucky Derby spirit, with charming cupcake bouquets at each table. Laura Hamilton spoke about the services we provide and exciting updates, and the Priest led everyone in the Human Trafficking prayer.
After a delicious lunch, the highlight was the wooden horse race. Laughter and cheers filled the room as everyone hoped their chosen horse would win. The joyous atmosphere united people in support of a meaningful cause.
This event was more than all the fun; it was also about community, kindness, and the shared goal of making a positive impact. A true testament to the spirit of the St. Timothy community, and a very special thank you to Cindy Pidala for all you do in our community and for Bridging Freedom!
April 2026
Christ The King Spring Tea
We are so thankful for the beautiful Spring Into Fashion event hosted by Christ the King’s Circles 20 & 16! Each year, their commitment and generosity have helped us to truly Restore Stolen Childhoods! The event was beautifully decorated with a floral runway wrapping around the tables so all could see the fun fashion show featuring new styles by many South Tampa boutiques. Their dedication is truly heartwarming. Thank you once again for your amazing support and for making a difference in the lives of young girls!
April 2026
Kids Are Not For Sale
On April 4th, 2026, Laura Hamilton was featured in a panel of experts for the Truth Faith & Action Alliance Conference: Kids Are Not For Sale. We are so thankful for the opportunity to connect with other organizations and spread awareness about the action we are taking against this horrific crime! The room was filled with attendees, eager to learn what steps they can take against child sex trafficking. Laura spoke about how the girls are recovered and the long-term therapeutic services we provide young girls in their healing journey. Attendees left with valuable resources to take, determined to make a difference and safeguard the future of every child.
March 2026
High Tea
We are so thankful for the beautiful High Tea hosted by Beth McCullough, Clarann Smith, & Bekki Reid
Christ Our Redeemer Lutheran Church &
Hillsborough College AMSA Pre-Health Chapter!
This is their 8th tea they have hosted in our benefit, and we are so grateful for all of their support over the years! Each gathering has been warm and delightful, bringing our community closer together. From the elegantly arranged tables, embellished with beautiful tableware and treats, along with the exceptional variety of teas and cuisine, consistently captivates and delights the guests. Their generosity and dedication have made a significant impact, helping us to achieve our goals and enrich the lives of those we serve. We look forward to more joyful occasions, where we can celebrate friendship and shared purpose!
February 2026
Red Sand Event
Bridging Freedom was encouraged to be with many community leaders in Dade city, Pasco County at the Red Sand event. Everyone who attended cares deeply about the issue of Human Trafficking and wants to be a part of the solution. Bridging Freedom was honored to help host this event alongside of the Department of Children and Families and Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking. Many people in the community gathered together to fill the cracks with red sand. Each grain of sand represents a victim who has fallen through the cracks of social, economic, and political systems.
January 2026
Candlelight Vigil
It was a beautiful night on January 10th, hosted by the Free Network, to help raise awareness about human trafficking and promoting community collaboration. Connie Rose led everyone in a beautiful candlelight walk with a moment of silence for all victims and survivors. Connie’s words resonated with compassion and strength, reminding everyone of the power of unity and the importance of taking action.
The evening concluded with an engaged and moved audience, leaving us with a renewed determination to make a difference.
As the event came to a close, it was clear that together, change was not only possible but inevitable.
November 2025
Bridging Freedom Supports US Marshals’ Operation Home for the Holidays
Bridging Freedom was honored to be a part of the US Marshals’ “Operation Home for the Holidays,” where a record breaking 122 children were recovered from the Middle District of Florida. It is a growing model of collaboration, that began in Tampa Bay and brought together federal and local law officers; FDLE, DCF, DJJ, Attorney General’s office, hospitals, and nonprofits to not only recover the children, but to provide immediate healthcare services and trauma informed care.
Bridging Freedom was honored to be asked by the US Marshalls to lead the social services and aftercare for the Jacksonville operations. When a child was recovered, law enforcement brought them to the hospital where Bridging Freedom engaged with the child to provide a safe place for them to start their healing journey. Our advocates then worked to make sure each youth was seen, heard and cared for. We provided connection to behavioral health services, emergency care, along with hot showers, meals, new clothes, and essential items for them to begin to feel safe again and to discuss safe placements.
Bridging Freedom is providing therapeutic residential care to several of the recovered children. Thank you for your support for us to continue this important work!