WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – A nonprofit organization is holding a banquet to help raise awareness for people experiencing homelessness or human trafficking.

“Over 250 people will be sleeping on the streets tonight in New Hanover County – vulnerabilities such as opioid use, past trauma and financial hardship make this population particularly prone to human trafficking and other abuse,” organizers First Fruit Ministries wrote in a press release.

The banquet will be held on November 12, with a holiday meal, live music and dancing and gift giving.

“As New Hanover County grows rapidly, the need for affordable housing is at an all-time high for the homeless. Unfortunately, as the cost of living rises, it causes increased disparity as affordable housing becomes inaccessible for people with mental health, behavioral and substance abuse disorders,” organizers said.

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