Child Sex Trafficking is Happening Closer Than You Think.
Most people imagine child trafficking as something that happens far away — a crime hidden in the shadows. But the truth is, it’s happening right here. In our communities, in our schools, and increasingly online.
Prevention starts with Education!
PACT stops child sexual exploitation before it starts, through prevention education, youth empowerment, and training for parents and professionals. This Giving Season, your gift helps protect children from exploitation and trafficking.
“If we do not educate youth, they can become vulnerable to exploitation. No human being should have to endure what I did.”
- Faith Robles, Member of PACT Survivor’s Council
Closer Than You Think…
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Most trafficking doesn’t begin with the scary white van, handcuffs, and kidnapping — it starts with a “friendly” message on an online platform.
Traffickers are using the same apps and games that children use every day. They build trust, then exploit it. That’s why online awareness is one of the strongest forms of prevention.
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Most child victims are exploited by someone they already know — a relative, family friend, coach, or neighbor.
This is why PACT invests in community education: we teach children to trust their instincts, recognize uncomfortable behavior, and seek help when something feels wrong, while we equip parents and communities to recognize and prevent exploitation.
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Many people picture trafficking as a dramatic abduction or a crime tied to border crossings, but the reality is, trafficking happens anywhere children live — including small towns, suburbs, and neighborhoods just like yours.
Any child who is coerced or forced to engage in a commercial sex act is considered a trafficking victim, even if that child never leaves their home, school, or community. That’s why PACT invests in prevention in all communities.
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Boys are often invisible victims of sexual exploitation. Shame, fear, and stereotypes keep many from reporting, being seen or believed.
Through education in schools, training for professionals, survivor-centered research, and community partnerships, PACT makes sure boys’ experiences are understood, validated, and addressed.
Trafficking doesn’t discriminate, and neither should our protection.
