Human trafficking is a serious issue, and there are numerous organizations and resources at the state, national, and local levels working to combat it in the United States. Here’s a list of some of these resources:
National Resources
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U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ): The DOJ provides resources and programs aimed at fighting human trafficking and prosecuting offenders.
- Website: justice.gov/humantrafficking
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National Human Trafficking Hotline: Operated by Polaris, the hotline provides 24/7 support for victims and a resource for those wishing to report trafficking.
- Phone: 1-888-373-7888
- Website: humantraffickinghotline.org
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Polaris Project: A leading organization in the fight against human trafficking, providing resources, support, and research.
- Website: polarisproject.org
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The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA): This federal law establishes a framework for combating human trafficking in the U.S.
- More information can be found on the U.S. Department of State's website.
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Shared Hope International: Focuses on ending sex trafficking and utilizing resources to prevent exploitation and restore victims.
- Website: sharedhope.org
State Resources
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State Attorney General Offices: Many states have dedicated human trafficking units. You can check your state’s Attorney General website for specific resources and task forces.
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Statewide Human Trafficking Task Forces: Various states, like California, Florida, and Texas, have established task forces that bring together law enforcement, service providers, and advocates to combat trafficking effectively.
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Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): Many state HHS departments have resources and programs to support victims and raise awareness about human trafficking.
Local Resources
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Local NGOs and Nonprofits: Various organizations operate at the local level offering services to victims, such as:
- The Salvation Army: Provides shelter, rehabilitation, and support services for trafficking survivors.
- The Covenant House: Offers various resources for homeless and trafficked youth.
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Local Law Enforcement: Many police departments have specialized units to address human trafficking. They often work in partnership with local NGOs to provide assistance to victims.
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Local Task Forces: Many cities have established their own human trafficking task forces, which often include law enforcement, service providers, and community organizations.
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Victim Service Providers: Organizations like YWCA, Catholic Charities, and local domestic violence shelters often provide resources and support for trafficking survivors.
Educational Resources
- The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC): Provides resources to educate the public and professionals about the risks of trafficking.
- Website: missingkids.org
Understanding and addressing human trafficking requires collaboration among various organizations, agencies, and community members. If you are seeking help or want to get involved, reaching out to one of these organizations can be a good starting point.