Freedom Is the Mission

Freedom Is the Mission

A simple Sunday morning introduction has grown into a partnership that could impact lives across North Texas.

Last fall, Richard and Terry Cody arrived early for worship at First Baptist Church Maypearl. Pastor Tony Sheffield greeted them and introduced them to Matt and Carmen Shelton—co-founders of Freed People, a DFW-based nonprofit dedicated to partnering with first responders to rescue victims of human trafficking.

That initial meeting sparked deeper conversations. Over coffee a few months later, Matt shared with Richard the sobering reality of modern slavery—how it hides in plain sight, impacts local communities, and devastates lives—and how churches can play an active role in bringing hope and freedom.

A Mission to Bring Freedom

Freed People uses a strategic, multi-team approach to combat trafficking:

• Outreach Teams build trust with exploited individuals and offer safe exits.
• Analyst Teams partner with law enforcement and families, using open-source intelligence to map trafficker networks.
• Intercept Teams act on that intelligence to locate and recover victims.
• Survivor Care Teams provide trauma-informed, faith-centered support to help survivors rebuild their lives.

Since its founding, Freed People has helped rescue 344 children and supported 84 adults into safe, stable environments—often leading to the arrest and prosecution of traffickers. Behind each number is a face, a name, and a story of someone given a second chance.

From Pastors’ Luncheon to The Big E Stage

In May, Matt Shelton shared his work with pastors at the Ellis Baptist Association luncheon hosted by Rockett Baptist Church. His message combined sobering statistics with stories of hope, demonstrating how high-tech tools, strategic partnerships, and deep compassion can work together to bring lasting freedom and restoration.

This fall, Matt will bring that same passion to The Big E Annual Celebration on Sunday evening, October 12, at First Baptist Church Maypearl. As one of five TED-style presenters, he will explore the intersection of justice and mercy—and the vital role churches can play in both. Attendees can expect an eye-opening and faith-stirring presentation that calls God’s people to be both courageous and compassionate in confronting evil.

A Call for the Church to Act

Meeting the Sheltons served as a reminder that local churches are uniquely positioned to engage in the fight against human trafficking. Whether through prayer, awareness, partnerships, or direct support, congregations can be part of bringing light into the darkest places. Every act of obedience—whether big or small—can be used by God to rescue, restore, and redeem.

For more about Freed People and their mission, visit freedpeople.org.

‍