FORT SMITH - A young woman originally from Fort Smith has been missing in Edmonton for three months.

Leanne Lori Benwell, 27, has not been seen since visiting with her mother in Edmonton on March 12.

Leanne Lori Benwell: Missing in Edmonton since April 15. - Photo courtesy of Edmonton Police Service

According to Edmonton Police Services, Benwell's mother reported her daughter missing on April 15.

The police say that, at the time of her disappearance, Benwell was unemployed and working in the sex trade, a high-risk lifestyle.

She frequented the area of 118 Avenue and 95 Street.

Benwell left Fort Smith for the city about six years ago.

The Edmonton Police Service issued a news release on May 10 asking for the public's assistance in finding Benwell.

Police spokesperson Lisa Lammi said some tips were received as a result of the news release and are being investigated.

Some people in Fort Smith have raised money to help family members travel to Edmonton to search for Benwell.

"They're out there looking," said family friend Cathy Lepine.

The raised money - $735 as of June 7 - helps family members pay for gas when driving to the city. It also goes to help care for Benwell's two young daughters.

Lepine said anyone wishing to donate can do so at the Bank of Montreal in Fort Smith.

The disappearance has been very difficult for the family, Lepine said. Police describe Benwell as aboriginal, 5'6", 115 pounds and with a slight build. She has shoulder-length black hair, which is often tied in the back.

She has a tattoo with the word "Vodka" on an ankle. One hand has the word "Ozzy" tattooed across the knuckles and the word "love" is tattooed across the knuckles of the other hand. Her jaw is out of alignment from a previous injury.

Lammi said anyone with information on Benwell's whereabouts should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, the Edmonton police at 780-423-4567 or the RCMP.