Human trafficking is exploitation of another person for profit, and the forms it takes are constantly evolving. It includes sex trafficking, child sex trafficking (when the victim is a minor, any commercial sex act is considered human trafficking), forced labor or labor trafficking, child soldiers, debt bondage, domestic servitude, among others. Victims lose their individual freedom and, many times, their identity when trafficked.
While a common perception of trafficking includes being kidnapped or abducted, this is far from the norm. The traffickers exploit their victim’s vulnerabilities, keeping them hostage psychologically. This means victims can still be living in their home, attending school, and/or participating in their community. And, just as anyone can be a victim, anyone can be a trafficker—a parent, relative, boyfriend, girlfriend, or someone you meet online.
To Get Help or Report Human Trafficking:
Call 1-888-3737-888 or Text 233733 (BEFREE)
or Chat at the humantraffickinghotline.org/chat
or Call Iowa Victim Service Call Center (800) 770-1650
or Text ‘IOWAHELP’ to 20121
or Call Iowa DHS Child Abuse Hotline (800) 362-2178
If you are in immediate danger, call 911
All services are free of charge and available 27/7
Siouxland Coalition Against Human Trafficking is a non-profit, 501(c) (3) corporation located in Sioux City, Iowa. The Coalition was founded in July of 2014. Our purpose is to work toward abolishing all forms of human trafficking through education, advocacy and collaboration focusing on, but not limited to, the three states (Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota) that comprise Siouxland.