TAKE ACTION Human Trafficking Alert: Protect Our Kids as the World Cup Heads to MetLife

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Human Trafficking: A Growing Threat in New Jersey as the 2026 FIFA World Cup Approaches

As New Jersey prepares to host matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford for the 2026 FIFA World Cup — including the finals — excitement is building across the Garden State. The tournament is projected to draw massive crowds, generate billions in economic impact, and spotlight our region globally. Yet amid the celebrations, families, communities, and faith leaders must confront a dark reality: major sporting events like the World Cup often fuel a surge in human trafficking.

Human trafficking — the use of force, fraud, or coercion for commercial sex or forced labor — preys on the vulnerable. In New Jersey, this crime already exploits women, children, and families. Experts warn that the World Cup will amplify these risks through large crowds, temporary visitors, and heightened demand for hospitality services. Traffickers thrive on the chaos of such mega-events.

Daniela Peterka-Benton, director of the Global Center on Human Trafficking at Montclair State University, has highlighted how these events historically spike trafficking activity. New Jersey’s dense population, proximity to New York City and Philadelphia, and extensive transportation networks already make it a corridor for this crime. The World Cup intensifies these vulnerabilities.

Take Legislative Action in New Jersey

State lawmakers are responding with targeted bills. Assembly Bill A1215, sponsored by Assemblyman Michael Inganamort and others, expands the crime of human trafficking to include individuals who benefit financially from it — even if they are not direct organizers, supervisors, or managers. This closes loopholes for profiteers and strengthens penalties ahead of high-risk events like the World Cup.

Assembly Bill A1260, also sponsored by Assemblyman Inganamort, the “Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Prevention Act,” requires internet-connected devices to include digital blocking capabilities for obscene material, child pornography, prostitution hubs, and known human trafficking websites. It includes opt-out provisions for adults and directs that fees be paid to the Commission on Human Trafficking. These measures support broader prevention, training, and awareness efforts by the FBI, New Jersey State Police, and coalitions like the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking. This bill is real prevention by putting a wall of separation between the trafficker and the minor. Too many feel-good bills in New Jersey get passed, for example put up a poster about human trafficking. Or promote awareness of human trafficking, etc. This bill has teeth and enforcement action and through the fees assist the Commission on Human Trafficking without raising taxes.

Another Powerful Way to Take Action: #PrayShareFind Outreaches on 6.6.26

The Center for Garden State Families strongly urges every citizen of New Jersey to get involved in stopping human trafficking. 

Since our inception 10 years ago, we have been working with the Church and Community Abolition Network (CAN). We have participated in outreaches like this, educating the hospitality industry at hotels and motels across New Jersey. 

SIGN UP. GET INVOLVED. BE THE SOLUTION!

 Faith communities and families have a vital opportunity to respond directly. On Saturday, June 6, 2026 (6.6.26), from 10AM–1PM, the Church and Community Abolition Network (CAN) is organizing simultaneous #PrayShareFind USA World Cup Area Outreaches across the 11 U.S. World Cup host regions, including New Jersey.

Dozens of churches will mobilize thousands of volunteers to partner with professionals in targeted community deployments. The goal: locate area missing and exploited children, activate awareness among those likely to encounter them (hotels, restaurants, transportation hubs, etc.), and strengthen local anti-trafficking responses. CAN’s model engages state/federal agencies, law enforcement, and professionals, while volunteers amplify efforts in-person and digitally. Multi-agency work continues after the outreach, with CAN monitoring and publishing outcomes.

Since 2021, #PrayShareFind outreaches have helped find more than 8,800 children. FIFA has described the 2026 World Cup as the largest sporting event in history, with the U.S. hosting in 11 cities — including East Rutherford (finals), plus watch parties in New York City and Atlantic City. Increased crowds mean increased risk, making this timely mobilization especially important.

Who should attend? Ages 18+ are welcome; ages 16+ with a legal guardian. All must register (free) via the CAN Eventbrite page by selecting a host church location: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/can-church-and-community-abolition-network-75752067423

What to expect: Doors open 30 minutes early. The event begins at 10AM (all time zones) with Human Trafficking 101 and logistics training. Teams deploy 11AM–1PM and submit reports. Updates will be shared on CAN socials (@can.abolition) and facebook.com/can.abolition.

CAN equips churches, communities, and professionals to prevent, detect, end, and heal local human trafficking. Special thanks to host churches and partners including NCMEC, States Attorneys General, and others.

Why Families Should Care

Human trafficking assaults the sanctity of the natural family. It shatters lives, separates children from parents, and commodifies God’s creation. Faith communities can host awareness trainings, support survivors, and join events like #PrayShareFind to protect the vulnerable.

Signs to Watch and Actions to Take

Key indicators include individuals who appear fearful or controlled, signs of abuse, lack of documents, or restricted workers. Report suspicions to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 (text “BEFREE” or “HELP” to 233733) or New Jersey’s SERV Hotline at 800-225-0196. All tips can be anonymous.

Protecting the Garden State’s Families

The World Cup offers New Jersey a chance to shine, but we must safeguard the vulnerable. Support legislation like A1215 and A1260. Join the June 6 outreach, stay vigilant, and uphold faith and family values. Human trafficking is not a game — it demands our attention and action.

Together, through awareness, prayer, civic engagement, and events like #PrayShareFind, the Center for Garden State Families and partners can help keep New Jersey a place where families thrive, free from exploitation.