ACT Advocacy Update

Why focus on human trafficking? With limited resources and many urgent needs, you may be asking yourself, “Is anti-child trafficking training really necessary in my role?” The brief answer is YES, because the scale and risk warrant it.

In 2024, three major escort websites alone showed more than 1.2 million commercial-sex ads in Texas. Those ads — spread across urban, suburban and rural communities — reflect only one facet of sex-trafficking demand; they do not capture other recruitment methods or offline activity. The sheer volume of commercial-sex transactions tells us that we have a persistent and broad market that fuels exploitation and increases the likelihood that vulnerable youth will be targeted.

Youth in foster care face the highest risk for trafficking, fueled by their common histories of trauma and inconsistent access to supportive adults and resources. Because of these compounded vulnerabilities, prevention and early intervention are essential. Incorporating ACT advocacy into your program equips staff and volunteers with the tools to recognize signs of exploitation, respond effectively and coordinate with partner agencies.

Texas CASA is committed to supporting programs as they work to combat trafficking! Check out the ACT portal to learn more.