Human Trafficking

Shining light in dark places

Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery, traffickers profit from the control and exploitation of others. While this is a frightening occurrence, there are actions we can take to help combat and eradicate human trafficking efforts in our community, education is the first step!

Helpful Information

Statistics and Reporting

What is Human Trafficking?

Human Trafficking is the use of force, fraud or coercion to gain labor, services or commercial sex against a person’s will.

Statistics

  • Florida is ranked #3 in the U.S. for reports of human trafficking

  • Palm Beach County is 3rd in the state

  • 56% of people being trafficked are U.S. citizens

Signs a Person is being Trafficked

  • Is isolated from friends or family, or have limited access to those who may be able to help

  • Victim is not in possession of identification or travel documents

  • The victim does not have freedom of movement

For more red flags visit: www.polarisproject.org

Reporting Human Trafficking

If you suspect someone is being trafficked or need help, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at

1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to BEFREE (233733). Help Me

Parents

What to tell your teens to be aware of so that they don’t become a victim of human trafficking

  • Beware of who befriends you online

  • Beware of fake ads for modeling, singing and acting

  • Beware of who befriends you at the mall

  • Beware of those who buy you meals, jewelry or gifts

  • Are you forced to work for little or no pay?

  • Are you prevented from leaving?

Note: Traffickers don’t “seem scary”. They will pretend to be your “friend” or your “romantic interest”.
Apps for parents to be aware of: Whatsapp, Whisper, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Tinder, Kik

Get plugged in

  • Community Resource Provider: Join faith-based communities, businesses and individuals helping to restore the lives of survivors of abuse and exploitation.  Examples of resources needed: Job skills coaching, medical/dental care, language translators, Life/Motivational coaching, personal health and fitness instruction, mental health and trauma. For more information please email stacey@communityofhope.church.

  •  Hosting or request presentations at your kids’ schools, at your organizations, place of business or small group. 

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Stacey Willson

Director of Missional Engagement

Stacey thrives on being the hands and feet of Jesus and has over 20 years of missional experience. Stacey was raised in Queens, New York, where she witnessed and experienced many hardships. After moving to West Palm Beach in the late 1990’s, she saw the struggle of food insecurities that many in the community faced. This sparked her passion to make a difference by opening a food pantry in the 561. Her family loves to serve together, both locally and globally. Stacey’s heart’s desire is to offer the hope and love that can only be found in Jesus Christ to all that she meets.