SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. – The SECO Energy Foundation has awarded an $8,000 grant to E3 Family Solutions to support its Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Project and ongoing Equipping Youth program. These are two vital initiatives aimed at educating and protecting youth and families in Central Florida.

Founded in 2010, E3 Family Solutions has reached more than 30,000 students across Lake, Sumter, and Hernando Counties through its flagship program, Equipping Youth. The program delivers evidence-based education on risk avoidance, healthy decision-making, and issues such as substance abuse, violence, online safety, and human trafficking. Their latest initiative tackles the growing concern of human trafficking in local communities by offering workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns to empower families and youth with knowledge and prevention tools.

“Equipping students with the awareness and skills to make safe, healthy choices is one of the best investments we can make in our communities,” said Lee Linn, Treasurer of the SECO Energy Foundation.

The Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness Project addresses a rising threat in Central Florida, where trafficking is often misunderstood or overlooked. E3’s outreach educates families, educators, law enforcement, and community members about recognizing red flags, protecting youth, and reporting concerns. The program also aims to correct common misconceptions by highlighting that trafficking doesn’t just happen overseas or in large cities, but right here in rural counties like Sumter, Lake, and Hernando.

“This project is about education and empowerment,” said Darla Huddleston, Executive Director of E3 Family Solutions. “When youth and families are equipped with accurate information and tools to protect themselves, we strengthen our whole community.”

To learn more about E3 Family Solutions, visit www.E3FamilySolutions.org.

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local charitable initiatives. The Foundation awards grants quarterly to organizations that focus on health and human services, veterans, public safety, STEM, energy, environmentalism, and education. For more information, visit www.SECOFoundation.org.