The Crucial Distinction: Human Smuggling vs. Human Trafficking in Border Issues

Recent law enforcement operations in Costa Rica have shed light on the persistent challenges of irregular migration through Latin America. These events underscore the vital importance of distinguishing between two transnational crimes: human smuggling and human trafficking. While they often overlap in discourse, these crimes have fundamental differences that demand our attention, particularly in the context of global migration.

Understanding Human Smuggling and Human Trafficking

Human smuggling involves the consensual, albeit illegal, transport of individuals across borders. This crime—a violation against national sovereignty—typically ends once the migrant reaches their destination. In contrast, human trafficking is a heinous violation of human rights. It entails the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals for labor, sexual exploitation, or other purposes. Trafficking is a crime against humanity, with victims trapped in cycles of abuse and control, often long after their initial movement.

This distinction became evident in August 2024, when Costa Rican authorities, supported by the United States, dismantled a sophisticated smuggling operation. Twenty-one suspects were arrested for charging migrants as much as $14,000 each to journey from Ecuador to the United States. The operation provided logistical support for migrants from Ecuador, Africa, and Asia, guiding them through the treacherous Darien Gap between Colombia and Panama before continuing to the U.S. This case exemplifies the organized nature of smuggling—a dangerous but consensual activity—while highlighting the risks migrants face along such perilous routes.

The Human and Financial Costs of Irregular Migration

The dangers of irregular migration are exacerbated by increasingly restrictive border policies. Migrants seeking better lives are compelled to undertake more hazardous and costly journeys. For example, smuggling fees that once ranged in the hundreds of dollars during the 1990s now cost anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000. This dramatic increase reflects not only the heightened risks but also the growing sophistication of smuggling networks. Alarmingly, some criminal organizations have shifted from drug trafficking to human smuggling, with revenues in the Americas skyrocketing from $500 million in 2018 to an estimated $13 billion in 2022.

Migration in the Americas: A Complex Challenge

The Costa Rican case is but one piece of the larger migration crisis in the Americas. Migrants—often fleeing poverty, violence, or political instability—face limited legal pathways, forcing them into the hands of smugglers. However, studies indicate that harsher deterrence measures, such as those anticipated under renewed border enforcement policies, do not necessarily halt migration. Instead, they increase the dangers for migrants and enrich the criminal networks that profit from their desperation.

Recent U.S. border crossing statistics underscore the scale of the challenge. In fiscal year 2024, over 2.3 million crossings were reported—a dramatic increase compared to approximately 414,000 crossings a decade ago in fiscal year 2014. This sheer volume makes it increasingly difficult for law enforcement to accurately determine the origins, motives, and intentions of those crossing the border. Such complexities complicate efforts to distinguish between individuals seeking asylum, those migrating for economic reasons, and those potentially exploited by traffickers or smugglers.

Why the Distinction Matters

Understanding the difference between smuggling and trafficking is essential for crafting effective and compassionate responses to migration. Smuggling involves willing participants navigating illegal pathways, whereas trafficking victims are ensnared in exploitation against their will. While both crimes involve human suffering, addressing them requires distinct strategies. Combating smuggling demands border security and international collaboration, while eradicating trafficking necessitates victim-centered approaches, including legal protections, rehabilitation services, and prevention efforts.

A Call to Action

The fight against human smuggling and trafficking requires global cooperation, informed policies, and public awareness. By recognizing the nuances between these crimes, we can better protect vulnerable populations, hold perpetrators accountable, and address the root causes of irregular migration. Mission 991, Inc., is at the forefront of this effort, providing education, public awareness, and cutting-edge intelligence training to combat these challenges effectively. Their work extends to equipping communities with the tools and expertise needed to gather actionable intelligence and support vulnerable populations.

It is only through continued public support that Mission 991, Inc. can sustain these critical initiatives. Your contributions directly enable the organization to educate, train, and assist in the field. Together, we can foster a more compassionate and informed response to the complex issues surrounding migration, smuggling, and trafficking. Let us stand united in this mission to protect human dignity and uphold justice.

Amplifying Impact: How Mission 991 Disrupts Exploitative Schemes and Locates Endangered Youth

The issue of missing persons, particularly endangered youth, is a profound concern that demands our attention and collective efforts. At Mission 991, Inc., we are dedicated to leveraging in-person, clandestine, and open-source intelligence gathering to assist families in need and overworked law enforcement agencies in locating and safely returning missing and endangered youth. In this blog post, we will explore how Mission 991's unique approach amplifies the disruption of exploitative schemes and emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts. Visit the Mission 991 website at www.mission991.org for further details and assistance.

1. Intelligence Gathering Expertise:

Mission 991's specialized team possesses extensive expertise in intelligence gathering techniques. By leveraging a combination of in-person investigations, clandestine operations, and thorough analysis of open-source information, we collect valuable data that can uncover connections to exploitative schemes beyond missing persons cases. Our methods help identify hotspots, traffickers, and criminal networks, enabling targeted actions that disrupt not only immediate dangers but also wider criminal activities.

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2. Collaboration with Law Enforcement:

We understand the challenges faced by overworked law enforcement agencies in their efforts to locate missing persons. At Mission 991, we actively collaborate with these agencies, providing additional resources, expertise, and a fresh perspective. By joining forces, we enhance the collective intelligence and investigative capabilities, leading to more comprehensive and successful outcomes in locating endangered youth and disrupting associated exploitative schemes.

3. Public Awareness and Community Engagement:

Mission 991 recognizes the power of public awareness in locating missing and endangered youth. Through our outreach efforts, we mobilize communities, educate the public, and encourage vigilance. By raising awareness about the interconnectedness of missing persons cases with issues like human trafficking, gang activity, and drug addiction, we foster an environment where people report suspicious activities, aid investigations, and ultimately disrupt exploitative schemes.

4. Victim Support and Rehabilitation:

Locating missing and endangered youth is only the first step. At Mission 991, we prioritize the well-being of survivors by providing vital support and connecting them to necessary services. Through counseling, rehabilitation programs, and partnerships with community organizations, we offer a holistic approach to help victims break free from exploitation and begin the journey towards healing and recovery.

5. Mission 991 Website and Assistance:

For further details on Mission 991's efforts, including our intelligence gathering methodologies and assistance provided to families and law enforcement agencies, we invite you to visit our website at www.mission991.org. There, you will find valuable resources, contact information, and ways to get involved. We are committed to making a lasting impact in locating and returning endangered youth while disrupting exploitative schemes that threaten our communities.

Mission 991, Inc. is at the forefront of efforts to locate missing and endangered youth by leveraging intelligence gathering techniques, collaborating with law enforcement, raising public awareness, and providing crucial victim support and rehabilitation. Together, we can disrupt exploitative schemes and protect the most vulnerable members of our society. Visit www.mission991.org to learn more about how you can join us in our mission to make a difference.

The Looming Economic Downturn: A Threat to Low to Medium Income Families and Vulnerability to Human Trafficking

Introduction: As the global economy faces the uncertainties of a potential economic downturn, it is crucial to consider the impact it may have on low to medium income families and their vulnerability to exploitation, particularly human trafficking. Throughout history, poverty has played a significant role in creating illicit markets fueled by desperation, such as drug and sex trades. In this blog post, we will delve into the potential consequences of an economic downturn on vulnerable families and discuss proactive steps individuals can take to mitigate the risk of becoming victims of human trafficking, as well as ways to navigate the challenges brought about by a recession. Regardless of your current situation we want you to know that Mission 991, Inc. stands by you and we are here to help in anyway we can as we all prepare for the times ahead and strive to eliminate human trafficking in all of its forms.

Understanding the Link between Economic Downturns and Vulnerability: During times of economic hardship, low to medium income families often face heightened financial stress, job loss, and limited access to resources. These circumstances can increase their vulnerability to human trafficking and exploitation. Desperation to provide for their families may lead individuals to take risks they wouldn't consider under normal circumstances, making them susceptible to the deceptive promises and coercion of traffickers.

Impact on Low to Medium Income Families:

• Unemployment and Underemployment: Economic downturns typically result in job losses and reduced employment opportunities, leading to increased financial strain on families. This can push individuals into seeking alternative means of income, making them more susceptible to exploitation.

• Financial Instability: Reduced income and increased financial burdens can lead to housing instability, food insecurity, and lack of access to essential services. These factors further exacerbate the vulnerability of families, making them more susceptible to traffickers' manipulation.

• Mental Health Challenges: Economic recessions are often accompanied by a rise in stress, anxiety, and mental health issues. These challenges can impair judgment and decision-making abilities, making individuals more vulnerable to falling prey to traffickers' deceptive tactics.

  Steps to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Human Trafficking:

• Education and Awareness: Increasing awareness about the tactics employed by traffickers is crucial. Promote community-wide education programs, workshops, and campaigns to equip individuals, particularly youth, with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and avoid potential exploitation.

• Strengthen Support Systems: Building strong support networks within communities can provide a safety net during challenging times. Encouraging open dialogue, fostering relationships, and connecting individuals to local resources can help mitigate vulnerabilities and prevent exploitation.

• Enhance Financial Literacy: Empowering individuals with financial literacy skills can help them make informed decisions during economic hardships. This includes budgeting, saving, and accessing legitimate financial resources, thereby reducing the likelihood of falling prey to exploitative offers.

  Navigating the Challenges of a Recession:

• Seek Assistance and Resources: Familiarize yourself with local organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies that offer support to individuals and families facing economic difficulties. These organizations can provide assistance with housing, food, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

• Skill Development and Education: During economic downturns, investing in skill development and education can improve job prospects and increase resilience. Explore vocational training programs, online courses, or educational opportunities that align with your interests and potential career paths.

• Prioritize Mental Health: Take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Reach out to mental health professionals, seek support from friends and family, and engage in self-care practices to maintain emotional resilience during difficult times.

Prioritize Mental Health: Take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Reach out to mental health professionals, seek support from friends and family, and engage in self-care practices to maintain emotional resilience during difficult times.

Conclusion: As we anticipate the potential economic downturn, it is crucial to recognize its potential impact on low to medium income families and their vulnerability to exploitation, including human trafficking. By understanding the risks, raising awareness, and implementing proactive measures, we can strive to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly youth, from falling victim to human trafficking. By fostering strong support networks, enhancing financial independence. Reach out to Mission 991, Inc. if you are in need of support in your local area by email at mission991@mission991.org or on Facebook today.

Lack of Family Values Exposes Our Youth

Human trafficking is a modern-day form of slavery that involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit people for labor or commercial sex. It is a global problem that affects millions of people around the world, including men, women, and children. According to the International Labour Organization, 21 million people are victims of forced labor, while the Global Slavery Index estimates that 40.3 million people are trapped in some form of modern slavery, including forced labor and forced marriage.

The breakdown of family values and moral ethics has contributed to the rise of human trafficking. As society becomes more materialistic, people become more willing to exploit others for profit. The lack of values and ethics has also created a generation of people who don’t value human life as sacred. This has made it easier for traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals, such as children, who have no one to protect them.  With stronger families and strong men to protect them, traffickers will find it much more difficult to exploit youth and the consequences much more immediate.

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The Psalm 77, as recently portrayed in the Christian show The Chosen, presents the cry for help and desperation of people who are struggling with pain and loss, which is often the case for those in servitude and slavery.

The show sets the scene with Simon and his wife trying to reconcile the loss of their stillborn child while they are witnessing Jesus heal others around him, even non believers. How often do those in servitude and slavery cry out in this way.

“I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted. I remembered you, God, and I groaned; I meditated, and my spirit grew faint. You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak. I thought about the former days, the years of long ago; I remembered my songs in the night. My heart meditated and my spirit asked: “Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again? Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time? Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?””

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭77‬:‭1‬-‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It is important to acknowledge the emotional and psychological impact of human trafficking on its victims. The trauma that they experience can have long-lasting effects on their mental and physical health.

It is crucial that we take action to prevent and combat human trafficking. One way to do this is to support organizations that provide services to victims of trafficking. These organizations offer a range of services, including shelter, counseling, and legal assistance. They also work to raise awareness about the problem of human trafficking and advocate for stronger laws to protect victims and prosecute traffickers.

Another way to combat human trafficking is to educate ourselves and others about the issue. We can learn about the signs of trafficking and how to report suspicious activity to law enforcement and the human trafficking hotline.  We can also speak out against the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and support policies that protect human rights and dignity.

In conclusion, human trafficking is a global problem that affects millions of people. We must take action to prevent and combat human trafficking by supporting organizations that provide services to victims, educating ourselves and others about the issue, and advocating for stronger laws to protect victims and prosecute traffickers. We must also recognize the emotional and psychological impact of human trafficking on its victims and work to provide them with the support they need to heal and recover.

Florida’s Fight Against Human Trafficking in 2023

Three years ago Polaris Project released a 2020 report that named Florida the 3rd highest state for human trafficking in the United States. Since then, Governor Desantis and others have been actively fighting human trafficking to protect Floridians and visitors to the Sunshine State. Today I want to look at some of the factors responsible for this heinous crime, what is being done to combat it and what individuals can do if they suspect someone is being trafficked. 

Unsurprisingly, many of the same factors that contribute to sex trafficking across the country are also present in Florida. Florida was graded most recently as having a C by the Polaris Project, you can see the full report here.  These include poverty next door to an abundance of luxury goods appealing to international tourists, interstate highways connecting metropolitan areas and entertainment spots, a large population of undocumented immigrants who may fear retribution if they report human traffickers, and sadly the demand for sex workers that all these people bring to Florida. You can find your state’s report card from the Polaris Project here. 

Governor Desantis’ Response

Fortunately, Governor Desantis has taken proactive steps to address this issue by allocating $1 million towards hiring additional staff to help fight human trafficking. This increase in resources should go a long way towards strengthening existing anti-trafficking measures while also allowing law enforcement agencies across the state to expand their reach and better target areas with higher risk.  Additionally, Governor Desantis has worked with local legislators and community leaders on creating anti-trafficking task forces throughout the state.

Consolidating their efforts together with local law enforcement agencies—such as Tampa Police Department's Human Trafficking Unit—to leverage data-driven approaches and improve overall outcomes. There have also been several bills introduced in both chambers of legislature that aim at increasing penalties for those convicted of sex trafficking as well as providing more assistance to victims who have been trafficked or forced into prostitution against their will.

As reported by ABC action news on Jan 10, 2022, Republican State Rep. Jackie Toledo, of Tampa, filed one such bill aimed at increasing penalties for first time offenders purchasing sex.  HB 1439 would make a first offense a third-degree felony rather than a first-degree. These movements are being pushed in order to increase deterrence and are a part of the multifaceted approach required to address exploitation at all levels. 

Some of these resources are best delivered through non governmental organizations like Mission 991, Inc. who provide mental health resources to victims and individuals at risk. A large part of stopping human trafficking is in educating the public about the danger and how some of their actions may be inadvertently contributing to the problem. Pornography remains a high demand and lucrative model for traffickers to exploit victims.  Being able to address shame and guilt at its root before exploitation is a more proactive approach in hopes of preventing victimization.                                                                                                                                                         

What Can You Do?              

The best way you can help is by being aware of potential signs of human trafficking so you can report any suspicious activity quickly and accurately. Common signs may include:

• Someone appearing disoriented or confused about where they are.

• Having limited freedom of movement.

• Avoiding eye contact.

• Appearing malnourished or showing signs of physical abuse.

• Lacking proper identification documents.

• Displaying fear when speaking about their situation. 

If you suspect someone is being trafficked please reach out for help immediately by calling your local police department or dialing 1-888-373-7888 (The National Human Trafficking Hotline). Together we can work towards ending human trafficking nationally and in Florida!

Conclusion: 

In 2020, Polaris Project named Florida one of the top states for human trafficking. Since then Governor Desantis has made fighting human trafficking his priority by allocating additional funding and working with local legislators on creating anti-trafficking task forces throughout our state. He has also partnered up with local law enforcement agencies like Tampa Police Department's Human Trafficking Unit so they can leverage data-driven approaches and make sure offenders are brought to justice while victims receive necessary assistance and care they need. Finally, it cannot be stressed enough how important it is that we all remain vigilant against this heinous crime - if you suspect someone is being trafficked please call your local police department or dial 1-888-373-7888 (The National Human Trafficking Hotline). Together we can link arms in this fight and you can support Mission 991, Inc. to help educate the public and bring valuable resources to victims and at risk youth. Support Mission 991, Inc. today here.

Shame and Guilt, a Look at a Trafficker’s Toolkit

I want to start off 2023 by focusing on our mission and what I believe is one of the critical aspects to the trafficking and exploitation game.  Shame and guilt are normal parts of the human experience that we all struggle with from birth through death and to be honest it is a daily battle for me as well.  A large part of what I will address today is in the context of our vulnerable youth, but I want to be clear that I have yet to meet a person on this planet that does not struggle in silent anguish over something they can’t bear to drag into the light without help.  It is my deepest prayer and hope that as you read through this blog you will keep in mind where your help might be needed today, and where your sources of help and hope might lie so that you can let down some of your burdens as well.

“If you put shame in a Petri dish, it needs three things to grow exponentially: secrecy, silence and judgement. If you put the same amount of shame in a Petri dish and douse it with empathy, it cant survive” says Dr. Brene Brown

Shame and guilt can be extremely powerful emotions, especially for isolated teens. Depending on family, cultural and environmental factors these demons can take on wildly different aspects from one person to another. When teens feel isolated, they may not have the support or awareness of friends and family to help them cope with these negative emotions. This can be especially true for young men who are told in most societies that it is more manly to bottle these emotions up rather than show weakness. To be blunt, some very real places exist in the world where a young man dropping his guard can be physically and financially lethal.  This can lead to serious consequences, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts.

Shame is an emotion that is often related to feelings of inadequacy or unworthiness. It can be triggered by a specific event or a pattern of behavior, and it can be extremely difficult for teens to shake. When teens feel ashamed, they may feel like they are not good enough or that they do not deserve to be happy. This can lead to low self-esteem, which can make it difficult for them to build healthy relationships and achieve their goals.  The lack of meaningful progress to those goals only reinforces the feeling of inadequacy.

Shame is one of traffickers' primary means of isolating potential victims during the grooming process. This can take on several variations of the same play book depending on the victims perceived needs. If a victim displays a feeling of inadequate affirmation from a father figure that is how a trafficker will approach them. If they are a young man lacking love and affection while being rejected by women in their day to day lives, the trafficker may appear to be a young adoring girl showing interest in them and their goals. If it is a trans or homosexual youth seeking acceptance, that again is the community they will emulate.  This tactic is used effectively in Sextortion scams where a teen is led to believe they are in a serious online relationship, often without a parent's knowledge. When things progress to sharing compromising photographs the traffickers can then turn that around on the victim extorting money or sexual acts in order to avoid exposure of their “shameful” pictures. 

For a clear example of how quickly these Sextortion scams can get out of hand follow the YouTube link below to hear the heartbreaking story of a Michigan teenager who had everything going for him on the surface of things. Deep down and hidden from those who could intervene he was waging a devastating battle with guilt and shame that tragically took his life. Understand that his story is not an isolated event! 

Guilt is another negative emotion that can be harmful to isolated teens. It is the feeling of remorse or regret that occurs when someone believes they have done something wrong. Like shame, guilt can be triggered by a specific event or pattern of behavior. However, guilt is often more focused on the specific action that was taken, rather than the person's overall worth as a human being.  This can be difficult for some well intentioned people to understand outside of that teens cultural and environmental lens. For instance a teen from a devout Catholic family may carry tremendous guilt over something a teen from a Buddhist family might laugh off, or the opposite may be true. 

Both shame and guilt can be especially harmful to isolated teens and adults who have a perceived or real lack of support. I say perceived because often teens and young adults lack the experience to know that we all struggle and they’re struggles are not unique in the human experience. Isolated teens may feel like they have no one to talk to about their feelings, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. This can be reinforced by the voices in a teens life. 

Jim Rohn famously wrote: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”  This is where parents and the community have to be actively involved in a teens life to identify those voices. In 2023 it is imperative to come to terms with the fact that these voices can come from online chat groups, podcasts, shows, news anchors, and more traditionally from books etc. 

Following a disagreement over chat group restrictions with my teen I explained it in a broader way for them to understand. I asked them: “Would you expect me as your father to drop you off in a busy bus station surrounded by 50 or so complete strangers. Some of them responsible, some high on drugs, some drunk, some with violent records, and some known predators. All with just as colorful educations, illnesses and religious ideologies?”  It took them a minute to painfully admit that was not what I would allow nor what they would actually feel safe with. “That’s not fair!”.. How many times have we heard that one parents?  The problem is with our perspective on what we see as a threat. 

We are conditioned over millions of years to perceive threats with our acute hearing, taste, smell and feel. If it’s too hot it’s dangerous. If it’s too menacing it’s not ok. So when our kids plug in and for the first time in hours the house is quiet we mistakenly think everything is ok. It’s not!  Your child is sitting in a room surrounded by complete strangers and if they like what the stranger has to say it’s a click of a button to be notified next time they are available to chat. 

The threat would arguably be less of a danger if the law of randomness was allowed to play out but that is eliminated through the use of social media follows, AI bots and push notifications. In extreme cases this shame and guilt can go unnoticed to the point of suicidal thoughts. Oh and by the way there’s a group with open arms online for when you or your teen starts searching suicidal content. I wouldn’t be surprised if my social media feeds explore the topic for me since I’m typing this into a device that is currently monitoring me legally through those neat but tedious user agreements. It’s just the world we live in and we need to start seeing it for the threat it is or our communities and our values will wither to extinction.

It is important for parents, caregivers, and other adults to be aware of the dangers of shame and guilt in isolated teens. If you notice that a teen or young adult in your life is struggling with these emotions, it is important to reach out and offer support. This can be as simple as having a conversation about their feelings or offering to help them find resources for coping with these emotions. By showing isolated teens that they are not alone and that they are loved and supported, we can help them navigate the challenges of adolescence and build healthy, fulfilling lives.

This fulfillment can come from many healing channels but they must address purpose, safety and community. Some parents need to get more involved. Some parents need to come to terms with the fact that as their teens mature they will have some things they would rather share with peers. This is where a healthy and robust community comes in and is sorely lacking in our digital and isolated age. 

This can only scratch the surface of the deep rooted challenges our young adults and youth face in the digital world where predators and marketing campaigns alike are persistently attacking their freewill.  I hope it starts the conversation for some and if you are in need of further resources reach out to Mission 991, Inc. and we will be happy to get you started on the road to emotional freedom. 

Holiday increase in Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is a serious and pervasive problem that affects people all around the world, and unfortunately, it often increases during the holiday season. Its important to first understand that all forms of exploitation must be addressed. Human trafficking is only one of the many ways that the vulnerable are exploited for the benefit of others. According to the United Nations, human trafficking is "the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation." This can include sex trafficking, labor trafficking, and other forms of exploitation.

Why does human trafficking increase around the holidays?

There are a number of reasons why human trafficking tends to increase during the holiday season. One reason is that there is often an increased demand for cheap labor and sexual services during this time of year. Additionally, the busy and hectic nature of the holiday season can create opportunities for traffickers to exploit people who are vulnerable or in difficult circumstances. For example, someone who is struggling financially may be more likely to accept a job offer from a trafficker without realizing the risks involved.

As television promotes the ideal vision of happy families with support and nurturing. This can highlight the lack of support and family that some individuals experience more keenly in this season. Traffickers are experts at becoming that thing that people need the most. If they lack finances they become the money. If they lack physical and emotional support, then at first they become that source for a victim as they are groomed.

How to recognize human trafficking:

Some signs that someone may be a victim of trafficking include:

• Lack of control over their own lives or movements

• Signs of physical abuse or neglect

• Working long hours for little or no pay

• Living and working in inhumane or unsafe conditions

If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, you should report it to the authorities or a trusted organization that can help.

National Human Trafficking Hotline

1 (888) 373-7888

SMS: 233733 (Text "HELP" or "INFO")

Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Languages: English, Spanish and 200 more languages

Website: http://humantraffickinghotline.org

How to support survivors of human trafficking:

There are many ways of getting involved in the fight against human trafficking. This can include donating to organizations that provide services to survivors, volunteering time or skills, and spreading awareness about the issue. It's also important to recognize that survivors of trafficking may need ongoing support and assistance as they rebuild their lives, and to be respectful of their privacy and autonomy.

Overall, human trafficking is a complex and devastating issue that requires a multi-faceted response. By raising awareness about the issue and providing information about how to prevent and support survivors of trafficking, we can work towards a world where everyone is free from exploitation and abuse.

We can do our part with your help! Please visit our donation page and help us continue the work that we are doing to bring mental health resources and awareness to those in need.

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