Did you know? Houston is one of the main hubs of trafficking within the United States. With sex trafficking on the rise in our city, it’s more important than ever to recognize and understand how abuse can lead to manipulation and exploitation.  

This January, the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) is raising awareness about a critical connection that often gets overlooked: the link between domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. Survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault are at a much higher risk of being trafficked or coerced into exploitation.  

Trafficking can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or social status. Vulnerable individuals are often targeted by traffickers through seemingly harmless places such as video game chat rooms. Unfortunately, even those closest to them (family members or close friends) will exploit them for profit. Sex traffickers also use businesses as fronts to facilitate trafficking right here in our community.

At HAWC, our mission is to prevent violence for all. Survivors of abuse face unique challenges that require tailored safety plans. We focus on empowering survivors by providing the tools needed to heal and rebuild their lives free from violence.

• Donate: Your financial support is critical in helping us continue to provide FREE and confidential services to survivors. 

• Get Involved: Become a corporate sponsor, attend HAWC events, or learn how you can host an event.

• Share Our Story: Help us raise awareness and inspire others to join us in preventing violence and empowering survivors. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.