Awareness

Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery where traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to control victims for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts or labor services against their will. It's a multi-billion dollar criminal industry that denies freedom to millions of people around the world.

Sex trafficking is a form of human trafficking where individuals are forced, coerced, or deceived into commercial sex acts. Under U.S. federal law, any minor under the age of 18 involved in commercial sex acts is automatically considered a victim of sex trafficking, regardless of the presence of force, fraud, or coercion.

Vulnerable youth populations include:

• Runaway and homeless youth
• Youth in foster care or juvenile justice system
• Youth experiencing social isolation or family instability
• Youth with history of sexual abuse or domestic violence
• Youth with substance abuse challenges
• Children with disabilities or mental health issues

The foundation of trafficking prevention begins at home. Research consistently shows that children from stable, loving households are significantly less vulnerable to trafficking. Two-parent households provide additional layers of protection through increased supervision, emotional support, and positive role modeling. When children feel securely attached to their caregivers and have their emotional needs met at home, they're less likely to seek validation and acceptance from potentially dangerous sources.

Additional prevention efforts focus on:

• Education in schools and communities about trafficking indicators
• Building awareness among healthcare providers and first responders
• Strengthening support systems for vulnerable youth
• Internet safety education
• Community outreach and engagement
• Economic empowerment programs

Traffickers exploit vulnerabilities through:

• Psychological manipulation
• Economic abuse
• Isolation from support systems
• Physical and emotional abuse
• Substance dependency
• Document withholding
• Threats to family members

Florida ranks third in the nation for human trafficking cases reported

Major sporting events and tourism increase trafficking risks

In 2023, Florida received over 2,000 human trafficking reports

Southwest Florida saw a 40% increase in trafficking reports since 2020

A victim is someone who is currently in a trafficking situation - trapped, exploited, and under the control of traffickers. They are in immediate need of rescue, support, and intervention. A survivor is someone who has or is overcoming their trafficking situation and is on the journey of healing and restoration. While they may still face challenges, they are actively working towards recovery and rebuilding their lives. Both terms represent different stages of the journey from exploitation to freedom.

• Recognizes the widespread impact of trauma
• Understands potential paths for recovery
• Recognizes signs and symptoms of trauma
• Responds by fully integrating knowledge about trauma
• Actively resists re-traumatization
• Emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety

• Recognizing triggers and warning signs
• Using calm, non-threatening communication
• Creating safe spaces
• Offering choices and control
• Respecting personal space
• Active listening without judgment
• Providing grounding techniques

• Initial stabilization and safety
• Physical and mental health treatment
• Substance abuse support when needed
• Legal advocacy and support
• Development of coping skills
• Building healthy relationships
• Education and job training
• Long-term healing journey