BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) --- Before they head into the streets to meet with prostitutes, a group of men and women first gather in prayer and ask for divine guidance.

"Our ultimate goal is to get them off the street," said Pastor Doug Bennett, founder of Magdalene Hope.

According to the state Attorney General Office, California continues to be a magnet for all forms of human trafficking. The sex trade is a major player. And women who get ensnared can be working in Bakersfield one day and be sent elsewhere the next day by their handlers, said Bennett.

Magdalene Hope is a faith based group that reaches out to those who work in the sex trade. For the past three years, members hit the streets twice a month and try to befriend prostitutes no matter where they may come from.

Several topics will be covered at the Caring for the Caregiver seminar coming up on Saturday, June I6th,

This free event is from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm at Hodel's, 59I7 Knudsen Drive. It is for caregivers, professionals and family members. Adult day care will be provided, but you are asked to RSVP. Topics covered that day include: Dementia, veterans benefits, behavioral issues and the value of support groups. A light continental breakfast & lunch will be served.

For more information, contact The Alzheimer's Disease Association of Kern County at 393-887I. Reserve your spot before Friday, June Ist.

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK - KBFX) -- Fewer California high school graduates are heading off to college at CSU and UC campuses, and critics blame state budget cuts. That’s the finding in a new study, and local students and educators say it’s just what they’re seeing.

“It’s just so expensive to go to California Sate or other colleges or universities,”  Scottie Gee told Eyewitness News. He is now a senior at California State University Bakersfield, but the high cost of tuition forced him to start first his first two years at a community college.

Soaring tuition and fees are one reason given by the Public Policy Institute of California for a steep drop in California high school graduates enrolling at CSU and University of California campuses.