Scout brings ‘case for hope’

A local Eagle Scout candidate has organized a project to help rescue and rehabilitate children from sex slavery trafficking throughout the United States and in countries all around the world.
Hyrum Bell, 17, has been assembling suitcases of items to be given to children and youth, victims of human trafficking, who have been abused as sex slaves.
His “A Case For Hope – Suitcases On A Mission” Eagle Project is an unusual one. “I wanted to do something that would really help people, really have an impact on those who are hurting the most,” Bell said. “My brother, Sam, is helping me. We saw the trailer for a documentary called ‘The Abolitionists,’ and then learned more about what is being done to stop human trafficking.
“Since there are already organizations at work in the U.S., and training others to work in countries around the world, I wanted to find something practical I could do to help.”
Bell teamed up with Operation Underground Railroad, (O.U.R)., a private, California-based organization established in 2013. According to a release issued by Bell about his project: “O.U.R. is dedicated to infiltration of human trafficking cartels to rescue the children being abused as sex slaves in America. They also collect evidence to convict and bring sex slave ring leaders to justice. The search and rescue missions are conducted by O.U.R.’s highly trained jump team consisting of former CIA, Navy SEAL, and other Special Operatives.”
Bell’s project is to collect materials and personal items that will go directly to children who are being saved from sex trade human trafficking.
“Please help spread the word. Just a few minutes of time and a couple of clicks on-line can truly help someone in need. These are real kids, with unbelievably real trauma and need real help,” Bell said.
Angie Frantzen, from the Utah branch of O.U.R. said, “Aftercare is a huge part of our organization…. these donations are crucial to the children’s recovery. Every toy, book, or even a pair of socks, makes these children feel special and loved.”
Bell is the son of Amy and Jeffrey Bell. He attends the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Montrose, where his scout troop holds its meetings. He and his brother are currently staying with his aunt and uncle in Utah while he completes the Eagle project.
So far, Bell has put together five big suitcases that are stuffed, but is continuing to fill others, hoping to deliver at least 10 completed suitcases.
While some of the victims are boys, the main target of sex slave trafficking is young girls, Bell said.
Bell has created a wish list on Amazon.com that has items the children need when they are rescued. To help, go to Amazon.com and search Hyrum Bell’s name under “Find a list or Registry” and the wish list will come up. The list is called “Suitcases on a Mission.”
Items on the wish list include travel kits for women and men, undergarments, socks, first aid kits, and other comfort items.
Bell attended Elk Lake Elementary School, but was homeschooled since the seventh grade. He completed his senior year this past summer, allowing him to devote more time to completing his Eagle project.
His future plans include studying at Lackawanna College before embarking on a two-year mission trip. Upon the completion of the mission, he said he will likely attend Brigham Young University.
To learn more about Operation Underground Railroad. visit, www.ourrescue.org.
A video by Bell about the project can be viewed on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hyrum.bell/posts/903960749736232