The Topeka City Council is taking a stand against human trafficking.

They approved a resolution Tuesday night, becoming the first city in the country to engage in a long-term battle against human trafficking.

"I think what Topeka has done tonight in its leadership is just one huge step that's going to benefit many people in years to come,” Executive Director for the Topeka Rescue Mission, Barry Feaker said.

Councilman Mike Lesser introduced the resolution. He says the city must declare war on human trafficking.

"It's important to every community,” said Lesser. “Our most vulnerable people are the ones that are being taken advantage of."

Shawnee County Commissioners will vote on a similar resolution Thursday. The entities will join forces with the Topeka Rescue Mission to find and rescue victims.

"We're going to reach out to the victims,” said Feaker. “We're going to be able to offer them some options rather than where they are right now and say to those who are perpetrators of the crime, 'no more.'"

They hope it inspires others to fight back.

"It's a step in becoming a model for the state and maybe someday across the nation."

The city, county, Rescue Mission and the Kansas Department for Children and Families are holding a joint press conference Thursday.

It begins at 11 a.m. at the Law Enforcement Center.

They are expected to announce a new initiative to fight human trafficking.