Category
Statistics
Over the past day, disturbing markings such as “HELP” found on Google Maps in LA went viral, sparking fears of human trafficking in the area. While the Los Angeles Police Department has confirmed there is no legitimate threat, and the images are over a year old, the incident highlights a…
Human trafficking is happening everywhere, including in all 50 U.S. states, and short-term rental properties are not immune. Our Rescue CEO Tammy Lee joined the “Short Term Rental Secrets” podcast to discuss how this pervasive issue can infiltrate communities in unexpected ways. Short-term rentals are typically homes and apartments rented through…
National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, observed on January 11, is a call to join our collective movement to protect vulnerable individuals from human trafficking around the globe. As an organization, we partnered with communities across the U.S. and asked them to take a stand and Join the Fight™ against sex trafficking…
January 11 is a call to action: join our fight to eradicate sex trafficking and child exploitation here and everywhere. To mark National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in the United States, we are shining a light on the global disgrace of human trafficking and inviting you to join as a…
There is a lot of confusion about the realities of human trafficking and sex trafficking. Many people have unrealistic ideas about sex trafficking based on sensationalized movies, the media, or assumptions. Dispelling myths helps to raise awareness about the true nature of sex trafficking. If you want to help people…
Several factors make children and adolescents more susceptible to sex trafficking. Most traffickers know their victims, either through family, friends, or online connections. Traffickers often present themselves as a love interest or trusted mentor/parental figure—gaining the victim’s adoration, affection, and trust, before eventually exposing them to sex trafficking. Having…
There are many signs of sex trafficking. While not every warning sign means someone is being trafficked, each additional warning sign leads to a greater possibility that human trafficking is taking place. Remember, traffickers can be of any age or gender; they can be a relative, romantic partner, neighbor, acquaintance,…
In today’s world, most teens and children are always looking at a screen—particularly online apps, games, or video-sharing platforms. But just because an app or platform is marketed to kids, it doesn’t mean it’s safe. Parents and guardians need to research apps, looking at factors such as: Data collection: Companies…
Today, we proudly honor the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. Their unwavering commitment to protect and serve inspires us every day, and we are especially grateful for the veterans who are part of our team at OUR Rescue. We’re privileged to have individuals like Lance Lueck, Director…
Child trafficking is a complex and deeply concerning issue that affects millions of children worldwide. The International Labour Organization (ILO) says trafficking is among “forms of slavery or practices similar to slavery.” Trafficking happens when someone forces a child to do involuntary labor—such as sex exploitation or servitude—and someone else…
Most people can’t imagine trafficking their family members. Familial trafficking happens when a family member forces another family member to do involuntary labor—such as sex exploitation or servitude—and someone else in the family controls the proceeds. There’s a heightened risk of familial trafficking for children, teens, people with disabilities, and…
Black, indigenous, and migrant populations are disproportionately affected by human trafficking. As a result, addressing human trafficking requires acknowledging racial disparities and addressing systemic issues that contribute to vulnerable people. Trafficking is often a story of poverty and systemic inequalities Poverty or economic vulnerability can lead people to trafficking. According…
Most of us take a safe and stable home for granted. People with housing insecurity risk of becoming victims of both sex and/or labor trafficking. The odds that an unhoused person will be trafficked are considerably higher than a person with a secure place to live. The overlap between homelessness…
Up to 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+ which can lead to increased vulnerability to traffickers. The Polaris Project found that LGBTQ+ people are at higher risk of trafficking and exploitation.1 LGBTQ+ youth have distinct challenges that lead to increased vulnerability to traffickers. An estimated…