Fareway Stores announced recently that they have joined a statewide group to help end human trafficking in Iowa. The Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking (IBAT) is an initiative that’s led by Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate. Fareway is working with Secretary Pate’s office to find ways to prevent and raise awareness about human trafficking.

Fareway is a family-owned grocery store with 132 locations, 110 of which are here in Iowa. Three of those locations are in the Raccoon Valley Radio listening area, including Adel, Perry, and Jefferson. Secretary Pate says he’s excited to have such a large Midwest business join the initiative.

“Fareway being a top employer in Iowa is an important part of our communities across the Midwest, and I’m thrilled to have them join our army to combat human trafficking.”

Membership in IBAT is open to any business or nonprofit organization that operates in Iowa and shares a commitment to taking steps to promote awareness of human trafficking.