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Help Us Stop Trafficking and Give Victims a New Start

Children’s Network of Hillsborough’s Safe Haven program works to end the epidemic of child human trafficking in Hillsborough County and create brighter futures for young trafficking victims. We can all do our part to end trafficking by becoming aware of the issue, learning the warning signs, reporting suspected trafficking, and advocating for change. There is also an urgent need for compassionate people to open their hearts and homes as foster parents to formerly trafficked youth.

Please take a few moments to explore the information on this page and share it with others. Day by day, one positive action at a time, together we can make Hillsborough County a true Safe Haven that is free of human trafficking!

Safe Haven
Safe Haven

Questions & Answers

About Human Trafficking in Hillsborough County

Yes, the data shows that human trafficking, including minors, is an urgent issue in Hillsborough County:

  • Florida is #3 in the nation for reports to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, and Tampa Bay is a top hotspot for this crime;
  • Hillsborough County receives the highest number of abuse reports for human trafficking in Florida;
  • Children represent 1 in 4 human trafficking victims;
  • An estimated 60% of child human trafficking victims have a history in the child welfare system; and
  • The average age of a child human trafficking victim is just 12 years old.

Please join us in stopping human trafficking and healing its youngest victims.

The following are some of the most common warning signs that a child or teen may be a human trafficking victim. Please report your concerns if you see a child who:

  • Appears disoriented, fearful, paranoid, or confused and in need of help;
  • Has evidence of branding, such as scars, burns, or tattoos, that they are reluctant to talk about;
  • Has health warning signs like malnourishment, dental issues, addiction, infection, or sleep deprivation;
  • Has suspicious amounts of cash, hotel keys, or mobile phones;
  • Is closely associated with an overly controlling adult;
  • Allows someone else to speak for them or responds as if coached;
  • Disconnects from family, friends, and school; or
  • Frequently runs away from home or experiences chronic homelessness.

Everyone in Hillsborough County can help end the trafficking of children in our community by becoming familiar with these warning signs and how to report them.

The following hotlines are available to report suspected human trafficking and child abuse:

If you see any warning signs, please report your concerns immediately. As always, call 911 in an emergency.

There are many ways that we can work together to make Hillsborough County a Safe Haven for every child, free of human trafficking.

  • WATCH: Look for the signs identified in this brochure, and contact the authorities at once if you suspect trafficking or other abuse;
  • SUPPORT: Reach out to struggling families that you may see in your neighborhood, place of worship, or workplace. Stronger families provide better barriers to human trafficking;
  • TEACH: Help educate children in your life about staying safe, especially online, to avoid grooming and exploitation;
  • VOLUNTEER: Give your time and talent to help local families or as a mentor to Hillsborough County youth;
  • DONATE: Financially support organizations like CNHC that provide services to at-risk families and human trafficking victims;
  • ADVOCATE: Speak out for human trafficking victims on social media and by contacting your elected representatives; and
  • FOSTER: Become a foster parent to a child who has experienced human trafficking.

The more we do our part as individuals, the better the outcomes for our entire community.

In the State of Florida, “Level III” foster parents provide a safe and stable home to this vulnerable population. These everyday heroes give traumatized youth the nurturing environment they need to rebuild trust, process their experiences, and rediscover their sense of self-worth.

Level III foster parents receive additional training and resources to address the significant trauma that trafficked youth have suffered. This includes valuable education on the dynamics of human trafficking, trauma-informed care practices, and strategies for supporting these young survivors.

One of the most impactful ways that you can help young human trafficking victims is by opening your heart and home as a foster parent. Take the first step today by contacting Children’s Network of Hillsborough for more information. Call 844-933-KIDS (5437) or use the contact form on our fostering page.

LEARN MORE:

Download our brochure to learn more about how you can help.

Safe Haven Brochure