Law Enforcement in the United States is facing an uphill battle to protect our children from sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. Despite their unwavering dedication, many lack essential resources to successfully combat child sexual exploitation and sex trafficking. This is where O.U.R. steps in. We empower those who courageously serve us with needed support to take meaningful steps against these heinous offenses. We fight to protect children in our own backyard by developing relationships with law enforcement agencies and offering resources to expand and amplify their anti-human trafficking and exploitation efforts.

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Human trafficking is happening all over the world and the United States is no exception. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, human trafficking has been reported in all 50 states (NCMEC, 2022).

The National Human Trafficking Hotline, funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and operated by Polaris, a Washington, D.C.-based nongovernmental organization, reported that in 2021, 10, 359 situations of human trafficking were reported to the hotline, involving 16, 554 individual victims. As shocking as these numbers are, these reports are very likely only a fraction of the actual problem (Polaris, 2021).

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Human trafficking may seem like an insurmountable problem, but as parents and caregivers, we can take concrete steps to protect our kids. At O.U.R., we often hear the question, “How do I keep my children safe?” While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, we have four powerful strategies that can help safeguard our kids from exploitation.

First, we must acknowledge the harsh reality of human trafficking. Only by understanding this complex issue can we combat it effectively. Second, as caregivers, it's our responsibility to protect our children. With comprehensive knowledge and awareness, we can do just that. Third, we need to educate ourselves on the tactics predators use to lure in innocent victims. By staying vigilant, we can help prevent our kids from falling into their traps. And finally, we must start open conversations with our children about the dangers they may face.

By taking these critical steps, we can ensure our children's safety and build a strong foundation of prevention that touches every aspect of their lives. Don't let fear hold you back, be proactive and protect your children.

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Human trafficking is a grave issue, but identifying its victims can help save lives. According to DHS, there are key indicators that can help recognize human trafficking. Here are some red flags to look out for: - Is the person disconnected from family, friends, and community organizations? - Has a child stopped attending school? - Has the person's behavior changed dramatically? - Is a juvenile being forced into commercial sex acts? - Is the person showing signs of physical or mental abuse? - Are there bruises of various stages of healing on the person? - Is the person timid and submissive? - Has the person been denied food, water, sleep, or medical care? - Is someone seemingly in control of the person's actions and whereabouts? - Is the person coached on what to say? - Is the person living in unsuitable conditions with no personal possessions? - Does the person have freedom of movement or unreasonable security measures in place?

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Human trafficking is a dark and secretive industry that plagues our world, making it difficult to determine the full extent of this practice. A single term - "human trafficking" - covers various forms of misery, from sex trafficking and forced labor to forced marriage, child soldiering, and even forced begging. Be aware that this crime is everywhere, and no country is safe from it. It's impossible to pinpoint exactly where the highest incidence of trafficking is happening; how could we when so much of it is hidden from view? Nonetheless, what we do know for certain is that it exists in every single corner of the globe. We must raise awareness and put a stop to it, now more than ever.

Are you worried about your children's online safety? It's not just about avoiding "bad" apps or games - the real risk lies in understanding the features and capabilities of the apps they're using. Popular apps and community-focused features make it easy for predators to manipulate and exploit your children. Even apps with "private" settings can still pose a risk. That's why it's crucial to educate yourself on verification processes, background updates, and more. Keep your family safe with O.U.R.'s"Start Talking: An Online Safety Guide for Parents.

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Human trafficking isn't just a problem - it's a global epidemic. The latest International Labour Organization (ILO) study estimates that a staggering 49.6 million people are currently living in modern slavery worldwide, with a whopping 27.6 million in labor and sex trafficking and 22 million in forced marriage. These numbers are on the rise, and it's not just happening "over there" - an estimated 5.1 million people are in modern slavery on any given day in the United States alone. Child sex trafficking has been reported in every single state.

These statistics are harrowing, but we're not without hope. Government and non-government organizations like Operation Underground Railroad (O.U.R.) are fighting tirelessly to combat this evil. O.U.R. offers international support in over 40 countries, as well as backing law enforcement efforts in the United States.

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