Human trafficking affects millions of people worldwide. The International Labour Organization estimates that 27.6 million people are trapped in forced labor or sexual exploitation, generating approximately $236 billion in illegal profits each year.
But behind those numbers are real people. And for survivors, exploitation doesn’t simply end when they escape. Many are left navigating serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, legal barriers, and financial instability. Healing often depends on access to coordinated, trauma-informed services that protect dignity, safety, and personal choice.
Immediate Safety & Crisis Support
For someone who may still be in danger, immediate help matters.
- National Human Trafficking Hotline offers 24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and local referrals.
- Covenant House connects survivors to emergency, transitional, and long-term housing through a national network.
- Safe House Project: Coordinates emergency, transitional, and long-term housing placements for trafficking survivors through a national network of safe housing providers.
- The Trafficking Victims Assistance Program is federally funded and offers case management and benefits access for foreign national survivors.
Many domestic violence shelters also accept trafficking survivors. In some areas, organizations such as the YMCA, Catholic Charities, and Lutheran Services provide confidential housing paired with advocacy and legal support.
Medical & Mental Health Care
Trafficking leaves a lasting impact on the body and mind. Survivors may live with untreated injuries, chronic illness, PTSD, anxiety, depression, or complex trauma.
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide primary care regardless of insurance or ability to pay.
- HEAL Trafficking equips providers with survivor-informed healthcare guidelines.
- SAMHSA’s National Hotline connects individuals to trauma-informed mental health and substance use treatment.
- Polaris Project continues to research and map survivor services nationwide.
A report from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services states that survivors frequently experience PTSD, anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. Increasingly, services recognize that trafficking impacts people of all genders, including men who often face additional stigma when seeking help.
Legal Advocacy & Case Management
Survivors frequently need help navigating complex legal systems.
- Freedom Network USA offers legal representation, case coordination, and survivor-centered advocacy.
- The Human Trafficking Legal Center provides legal support and training to help survivors access civil remedies and victim compensation.
- The Crisis Aid Child Anti-Exploitation (CAP) Program offers legal advocacy and crisis response services for children who have experienced sexual exploitation or trafficking.
- CAST (Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking) delivers comprehensive legal services, immigration relief, case management, and survivor empowerment programs.
Education, Employment & Long-Term Support
Recovery does not stop at rescue. It requires the opportunity to rebuild stability, including safe housing, education, job training, and long-term support that helps survivors regain independence.
- Department of Labor (DOL) American Job Centers offer workforce training and employment assistance.
- Survivor Alliance, a survivor-led organization, provides peer support and leadership development.
- PRIDE Industries supports individuals facing employment barriers with job training and placement services.
Healing takes time, patience, and consistent care. Survivors deserve more than survival; they deserve restoration, justice, and the ability to rebuild their lives at their own pace, and without being pressured into a path that doesn’t feel safe or sustainable.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing trafficking, confidential help is available through the National Human Trafficking Hotline (24/7): Call 1-888-373-7888 or text “BEFREE” to 233733.
Advocacy & Community Protection
Silence protects traffickers. Awareness protects people.
Communities can help by supporting prevention efforts and amplifying survivor voices. Jean Davis speaks at schools, faith communities, and public events to educate others on how trafficking happens and how to respond safely and compassionately.
In many cases, the safest response is not to confront or try to “rescue” someone yourself. Compassion can look like recognizing warning signs, taking a person’s concerns seriously, and contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline for guidance.