Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has proclaimed January 2024 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Texas, urging Texans to educate themselves and their loved ones about the dangers of human trafficking and how to combat this heinous crime. Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of raising awareness about human trafficking and supporting survivors. He stated, "As Governor, Texas has bolstered resources for survivors of human trafficking and we have increased penalties for offenders to ensure they are punished to the fullest extent of the law. While we have made great progress in our fight against human trafficking, we must still come together to educate and help prevent others from falling victim to this horrific crime. This month, and every month, I encourage all Texans to educate themselves about the dangers and signs of human trafficking and how to support survivors."

Crystal Starkey, Associate Commissioner of HHSC Family and Youth Services and Supports, also highlighted the significance of addressing human trafficking, saying, "Preventing and properly addressing human trafficking is a challenging task, and it takes all of us to address it."

Texans are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the services and programs dedicated to fighting human trafficking. The Human Trafficking Resource Center (HTRC) promotes, assists, and funds efforts to stop human trafficking in Texas. The HTRC connects survivors of human trafficking to necessary resources and provides human trafficking prevention training for healthcare providers.

One such training offered by the HTRC is HEART (Hearing, Evaluating, Activating, Resourcing and Training). This free, trauma-informed course is designed for licensed healthcare practitioners and others who want to learn ways to prevent or identify human trafficking in healthcare and social services settings. It is especially relevant for front desk staff and individuals who interact closely with patients.

Texans can also contribute to the fight against human trafficking by purchasing a "Stop Human Trafficking" specialty license plate. Proceeds from the sales of these license plates support survivors of human trafficking, providing housing assessments, treatment services, shelter, and support for youth survivors.

In addition, HHSC participates in the Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force, a collaborative effort of over 50 organizations. The task force educates the public, identifies victims of human trafficking, and ensures that traffickers are investigated and prosecuted. It also develops legislative recommendations to enhance the state's efforts in combating human trafficking.

If anyone suspects they have witnessed human trafficking, they are urged to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. The hotline is available for calls, texts, and web chats.

Governor Abbott and HHSC are committed to combating human trafficking and raising awareness about this serious issue. Through education, support for survivors, and collaborative efforts, they aim to eradicate human trafficking in Texas.

To find out more, go to this link: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-recognizes-january-2024-as-human-trafficking-prevention-month