The photo below is specifically for Northeast Ohio residents, but no matter where you live, you can accomplish exactly the same as I’ve done.
First – Be aware of the signs
The Collaborative to End Human Trafficking has a great summary of the signs to look for so that you are aware if you encounter a person in danger of, or already being trafficked. Click here for a list of red flags that signal a person is being trafficked. Read that quick article and be prepared in case you see something suspicious.
Second – Know who to call
Here are four Hotline Numbers you should keep in your phone, so you’ll be ready to assist someone in need. (These first three are NE Ohio specific, but the fourth works nationwide.)
- Cuyahoga County Regional Human Trafficking Task Force Hotline 216-443-6085
- Sex Trafficking, Advocacy & Recovery (Project STAR) Hotline 855-431-7827
- Bellefaire Jewish Childrens Bureau Homeless and Missing Youth Program Hotline 216-570-8010 (They are also a National Safe Place partner.)
- National Human Trafficking Hotline 888-373-7888
I’ve created a file in my Android Keep Notes app, titled Hotlines. If I need it in a hurry, I’m much more likely to remember to look there than to try and remember the specific name of the organization I should be calling. On an iPhone, Notes works just the same.
If you live outside NE Ohio, you could simply Google search – Trafficking hotline numbers for Ohio (or whatever your area) and add those along with the national number.
The one caviat to remember, is that if you perceive the person to be in immediate danger, call 911 first and summon an immediate response from local law enforcement.
For more things you can do, check out these articles:
Want to get involved with ending human trafficking?
Saint Bakhita – patron saint of trafficking victims
Look beneath the surface – would you recognize someone being trafficked?
Make a friend – save someone from becoming a trafficking victim
