Garden State Families recognizes human trafficking as a profound violation of God’s commands for justice and mercy. Scripture repeatedly calls believers to defend the oppressed, seek justice, and care for the vulnerable.

Have you seen me?

New Jersey Human Trafficking Hotline:

Call 855-END-NJ-HT (855-363-6548), available 24/7.

National Human Trafficking Hotline :

Call 1-888-373-7888 (available 24/7).

Text "HELP" or "INFO" to 233733.

Chat and online reporting are also available at humantraffickinghotline.org.

Protecting NJ Families from Trafficking

Human trafficking is a grave crime that involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit individuals for commercial sex or forced labor. In New Jersey, this hidden epidemic affects countless families, with the National Human Trafficking Hotline identifying 269 cases involving 354 victims in 2024 alone—and more than 2,389 cases statewide since its inception.

Psalm 82:3-4— “Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”

Human trafficking often occurs hidden in plain sight. Recognizing the warning signs can help protect vulnerable individuals, particularly children and families in our communities. While no single indicator confirms trafficking, the presence of several together warrants attention and action.

Learn the Signs of Human Trafficking

Common Indicators Include:

Behavioral and Emotional Signs: The person appears fearful, anxious, submissive, or paranoid; avoids eye contact or social interaction; shows sudden changes in behavior, such as withdrawal from family, school, or community activities; or seems unable to speak freely and is often accompanied by someone who controls the conversation.
Physical and Living Conditions: Displays signs of physical abuse (bruises, burns, or injuries in various stages of healing), branding or tattoos (especially names, symbols, or "ownership" marks); appears malnourished, exhausted, or poorly cared for; lacks personal identification documents or control over their own belongings.
Work and Economic Red Flags: Works excessively long or unusual hours with little or no pay; is not free to leave their job or living situation; owes a large, ever-increasing debt to an employer or "sponsor"; or has expensive items inconsistent with their reported income or circumstances.
Situations Involving Youth and Families: A minor involved in commercial sex acts (any such activity involving someone under 18 is considered trafficking); frequent runaways staying with non-family members; sudden gifts, money, or involvement in asymmetric relationships (e.g., with significantly older individuals); or isolation from family, school, or faith communities.

Protecting Your Family: Practical Prevention Steps

Maintain open communication with children about online safety and healthy relationships.
Monitor for sudden behavioral changes or unexplained absences/gifts.
Educate on digital risks, including social media grooming.
Utilize parental rights tools and resources available on our site.
Partner with local churches and community groups for awareness events.

Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

Resources and Hotlines

If you suspect human trafficking, report it immediately through the confidential hotlines below. For survivors and families in need, the following organizations provide critical support. Garden State Families encourages informed action grounded in faith and community.