If you suspect someone is being trafficked or needs help
text "HELP" or "INFO" to BeFree (233733)
or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline
888-373-7888
Worried you may not remember the numbers?
Save them in your contacts. Be ready to be a hero!
Learn the Signs
Proverbs 31:8 commands us to speak up for those who can’t speak for themselves. We’re responsible to learn the signs of human trafficking and to be aware of our surroundings so we can help those under duress. Take a few minutes to learn how to spot the signs of a person under someone else's control. That knowledge could save a life.
Memorize the Hotline Number
Isaiah 58:6 encourages action on behalf of the oppressed and unjustly imprisoned as evidence of our deep love for God. We need a way to call for help if we see signs of human trafficking. Memorizing the human trafficking hotline could mean saving a life in the future. The phone number is an easy pattern: 888 37 37 888
No Excuses
Reports of trafficking are everywhere, and it’s our responsibility to help. Proverbs 24:11–12 directs us to rescue victims and reminds us we can’t say “we didn’t know.” According to the US Department of State, I-95 is a particular problem because it runs through fourteen eastern states into Canada. Paying attention while traveling is important, particularly at rest stops and gas stations.
Stats and Definition
Because those who perpetrate human trafficking do so in secret, statistics vary from tens of thousands to over a million victims in the US alone. A victim has been trafficked if someone has exploited them to provide labor or other acts by force, fraud, or coercion. If you suspect someone is being trafficked, call the national hotline at 888-373-7888
Expose the Perpetrators
Ephesians 5:11 instructs us to expose “deeds of darkness.” Traffickers often rely on tight control to keep victims in line. Victims of human trafficking may be too afraid of retaliation to accuse their captors. If someone appears to have limited choices or no control over their own money, seems disoriented, or can’t explain where they live, call attention to these red flags.
Who's at Risk?
Matthew 18:6 has harsh words for anyone who mistreats a child. Unfortunately, children are at high risk for human trafficking, particularly those who experience family disruption or juvenile justice involvement. Others at risk include un-housed or impoverished individuals and those who’ve experienced abuse, neglect, or violence.
Who's My Neighbor?
In Luke 10, Jesus answers this question by describing a mistreated individual and the man from Samaria who stopped to help. BEING a neighbor and caring for others regardless of background is important to Jesus. Loving your neighbor “as you love yourself” requires action. It’s important to stand up for neighbors in need.
Travel Center Prevention
You may have noticed posters in highway rest areas describing signs of human trafficking. Highways are severe-risk areas. Trafficked individuals may appear subdued, anxious, or under the influence of a substance. Relationships between adults and children may seem unusual. Signs of physical harm may be present. Don’t wait to report concerns: text INFO to 233733. The number spells “BeFree.”
Trafficking in Our Backyard
Child trafficking is a problem worldwide, but it’s also right in our own backyard. American children are bought and sold every day. The average age of exploited children in an ongoing situation is between 14 and 17—much younger than the age of consent. Even if we never meet one of these children, we can pray for their protection, rescue, and recovery.
Family Isn't Always Safe
Trafficked children are recruited at age thirteen, on average. However, in about half the cases, family members are directly involved. In familial trafficking, the average age of the exploited child is FOUR. During formative years, children look to adults for moral and ethical guidance. This early exposure from a trusted adult normalizes exploitation and destroys innocence.
Recovery Isn't Easy
The harm endured by trafficked individuals isn’t easily overcome. Nine out of ten survivors live with long-term mental health difficulties due to trauma. PTSD, flashbacks, sleep difficulties, and nightmares are common. Survivors may struggle with addiction; disordered eating; intrusive, harmful thoughts—or worse. Specialized trauma-informed therapy, early intervention, and community support are key.
Who are Traffickers?
Movie villains are easy to spot, but traffickers often “hide in plain sight” by using real businesses like farms or cleaning services. Many position themselves as a community benefactor or family friend. They target struggling individuals in places like transit hubs, local motels, or online chat rooms. They may rent a neighborhood home, keeping the windows covered and strictly monitoring activity.
