Human trafficking of minors is a hidden crisis that affects every community in the United States, yet most people are unaware of its presence. In fact, right here in Illinois, human trafficking occurs every day to children whose average age is 14. By increasing awareness, recognizing warning signs, and supporting survivors, we can protect vulnerable youth and disrupt exploitation networks.
Awareness & Understanding
Most people believe that human traffickers are often kidnappers or strangers, but young people in sex trafficking situations almost always know and even trust their traffickers. Those vulnerable to trafficking can come from a variety of backgrounds and demographics. To get a better understanding of this ongoing crisis and how to combat it, we sat down with Shelter Youth & Family Services’ Executive Director, Carina H. Santa Maria, MSW, LCSW. Santa Maria has spent much of her studies focused on this topic and is committed to a future that supports survivors and prevents trafficking.
She states, “One of the strongest indicators that a young person may be a victim of trafficking is a history of sexual abuse. Prior trauma can make youth more vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation. Because trafficking often follows patterns of systemic inequality, we see trafficking disproportionately impacting girls, LGBTQ+ youth, and low-income individuals. Other significant risk factors include housing instability, caregiver instability, substance abuse, involvement in the juvenile justice system, and running away.”
According to the West Coast Children’s Clinic’s Commercial Sexual Exploitation-Identification Tool (CSE-IT), other significant risk factors include:
- Housing Instability: Homelessness or frequent moves increase risk.
- Caregiver Instability: Lack of supportive adults leaves youth seeking connection.
- Running Away and Substance Use: Both heighten vulnerability to exploitation.
- Involvement in the Juvenile Justice system
It is important to remember that trafficking can often be hidden in plain sight and disguised as consensual relationships or legitimate work. By raising awareness and addressing the root causes of trafficking, we can better protect young people and disrupt the cycle of exploitation.
Education & Prevention
Education and awareness campaigns are essential to prevention. By raising awareness, communities can disrupt trafficking networks and safeguard at-risk youth. We all can make a difference by learning the warning signs and being prepared.
It’s important to:
Understand Red Flags
Skipping school, sudden unexplained wealth, tattoos/branding or marks of ownership, and/or reluctant to discuss whereabouts.
Dispel Stereotypes
Trafficking isn’t limited to kidnappings or strangers; it happens in all communities.
Educate on Digital Safety
Learn how traffickers use social media to lure victims.
Focus on Prevention and Intervention
Prepare communities to recognize red flags and how to respond effectively.
However, education and prevention cannot be tackled by any one single organization or entity. A united approach is vital to preventing these crises. “Multi-disciplinary task forces like the Cook County Human Trafficking Task Force are so important. These coalitions bring together law enforcement, nonprofits, schools, hospitals, and government agencies to share information, improve victim identification, and strengthen response efforts,” states Santa Maria. “Governments can pass stronger policies, increase funding for victim services, and train law enforcement. Nonprofits provide critical direct services, including housing, legal aid, and outreach efforts to at-risk youth. By equipping people with the right knowledge, we can disrupt trafficking networks and protect vulnerable youth.”
Emerging Challenges & Support
Over time, the threat of human trafficking has evolved, and traffickers are able to leverage new ways to prey on the vulnerable. According to Santa Maria, “One of the most concerning emerging trends in human trafficking is the increasing use of online platforms and social media apps to recruit and exploit victims. Traffickers no longer need to approach vulnerable youth in person; instead, they use social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps to groom, manipulate, and control them. Many traffickers build relationships with victims through false promises of love, job opportunities, or financial stability, making it difficult for youth to recognize the danger.”
Other challenges may include:
- Encrypted communication, anonymity on the internet, Dark Web, cryptocurrency, and disappearing messages on social media make it harder for law enforcement to track and dismantle trafficking networks.
- Global crises such as economic instability, conflicts, and displacement continue to create conditions where trafficking thrives. Vulnerable populations, including refugees and migrants, are at increased risk as traffickers prey on their desperation and lack of legal protection.
Santa Maria continues, “To combat these challenges, governments, tech companies, and advocacy organizations must work together to implement stronger online safety measures, increase digital literacy education, and enhance international cooperation in identifying and prosecuting traffickers. Addressing trafficking in the digital age requires a proactive approach to prevention, victim support, and policy reform.”
Supporting Survivors
Child welfare agencies play a critical role in preventing trafficking by identifying these youth, providing trauma-informed support, and ensuring safe, stable placements. It is vital for staff, caseworkers, and foster parents to receive the specialized training needed to recognize red flags and intervene early. Agencies also educate foster youth about trafficking tactics and online safety while collaborating with law enforcement, schools, and nonprofits to create a comprehensive safety net. This coordinated approach helps break cycles of exploitation and supports long-term healing for survivors.
Santa Maria adds, “Many services end abruptly at adulthood, increasing the risk of re-exploitation. Continuous care, including long-term housing, job training, mental health support, and legal aid, is essential for survivors’ stability and independence. By partnering with nonprofits, healthcare providers, and businesses, we can build a support system that fosters survivors’ independence and long-term well-being.”
Other Ways to Support
Because government funding and grants are limited or short-term, many essential services—like long-term housing, trauma-informed care, legal aid, and job training—are underfunded. Santa Maria includes, “Philanthropists and private donors are vital in supporting organizations fighting human trafficking. Donors can make the most impact by investing in established organizations, providing flexible funding to meet urgent needs, and supporting sustainable, long-term care.”
The best ways to impact anti-trafficking efforts are:
Providing Flexible Funding
Allowing nonprofits to address urgent needs.
Building Long-Term Partnerships
Ensuring the sustainability of essential services.
Advocacy and Awareness
Influencing policy changes and public perception.
By offering consistent financial support, donors help survivors escape exploitation and rebuild their lives with dignity and security.
Human trafficking is a global crisis that requires urgent, collaborative action. By increasing awareness, recognizing warning signs, and supporting survivors, we can protect vulnerable youth and disrupt exploitation networks. We all have roles to play—government institutions, businesses, nonprofits, and individuals.
Need Immediate Help?
If you suspect trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233733. Together, we can end human trafficking and restore hope and freedom to every child.