HT Awareness

Each week, Onehope Refuge receives calls from social agencies looking to place families. The demand for safe homes like ours has never been greater. Human Trafficking is on the rise exponentially every single day.

For the last 11 months, we’ve shared much about the families in our care. We’ve mainly shared what happens AFTER survivors arrive here. Today, in honor of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we’d like to flip the script. Here’s what can (and does) happen in the days BEFORE …

Rescuing someone from sex trafficking, most times, is incredibly involved. Victims can attempt to leave on their own, however, given the extreme control and manipulation experienced in their environments, this is extremely difficult. Remember, perpetrators go to great lengths to disempower and trap victims in vicious soul-crushing cycles. Traffickers often exploit shelter and basic needs. They isolate victims from social connections. They withhold legal documents and self-identifying information. They control finances and employment. They control communications. Some traffickers force victims to use drugs or alcohol, creating a very real physical dependence. They do this all under the guise of love which creates trauma-bonding. For these reasons (and many others), the trafficker + victim relationship is complex, nuanced and deeply intertwined.

So, how does one escape? 🛑

Let’s look at Emily’s (name changed for privacy) story. After years of exploitation, Emily found herself at a crossroads. She wanted to leave, but the risks seemed overwhelming. 

Through a trusted connection, Emily was referred to Safehouse Project, who then contacted Onehope Refuge. We began connecting discreetly through a secure app, where she expressed a deep desire to start over. Over time, trust was built, and together we determined that Onehope Refuge could offer the fresh start she needed.

With the support of partner organizations, we developed a detailed plan for her extraction. Every step was carefully considered to ensure her safety. On the planned day, Emily left under the pretense of a routine appointment. Following precise timing, she arrived at a meeting point where she was safely transitioned into a new beginning.

The Eco-System of #EndingHumanTrafficking ✋

There are several national organizations that receive trafficking victim referrals from walk-in centers, social workers, hospitals, friends, or victims themselves. These national agencies match victims with programs that are best positioned to serve their unique, individual needs. Matching is a sensitive, thoughtful process. Ideally, victims and the serving organization feel the placement is a mutually-impactful fit for everyone. This approach leads to the highest rates of long-term, sustainable healing. 

How can you help?  Be on the LOOKOUT! 👀 💙

#EndingHumanTrafficking requires vigilance and a collective effort from the community. While law enforcement and specialized organizations play a critical role, the power of community awareness and intervention cannot be overstated. Citizens are often the eyes and ears that can identify trafficking situations and create opportunities for victims to escape. If you suspect trafficking, please call your local law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline (below). Do not try to intervene yourself. 

Additional educational resources: Click here for a catalog of vetted content, including fact sheets, videos, and real-life survivor stories.