Local residents are often surprised when they learn that Nebraska is at high risk for trafficking. There are many misconceptions about human trafficking that lead Nebraskans to believe their state is safe from this heinous criminal industry. However, Nebraska faces significant challenges in combating human trafficking. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, Nebraska received 251 signals regarding human trafficking in 2018, identifying 81 cases involving 138 victims. Here’s why Nebraska is more vulnerable than many think.

Geographic Location and Transportation Infrastructure

Nebraska’s strategic location at the crossroads of major interstate highways, such as Interstate 80, makes it a significant transit hub for traffickers. These highways facilitate the movement of trafficked individuals, allowing perpetrators to transport victims across state lines with ease. The state’s extensive network of highways simplifies logistics for traffickers, making it a high-risk area for human trafficking.

Data from the Women’s Fund of Omaha indicates that commercial sex trafficking affects nearly every town and city along Interstate 80.

 

Labor Trafficking in Agricultural and Meatpacking Industries

Nebraska’s agricultural and meatpacking industries play a substantial role in making it a high-risk area for labor trafficking. The state’s rural areas and the demand for low-wage labor create conditions ripe for exploitation. Migrant workers, undocumented immigrants, and individuals facing economic hardship are particularly vulnerable. Traffickers exploit these populations for forced labor, leveraging their vulnerabilities and lack of legal protections.

Sex Trafficking in Urban Centers

Urban centers in Nebraska, including Omaha and Lincoln, heighten the risk of sex trafficking, particularly during major events and conferences. These cities attract large crowds, increasing the demand for commercial sex. The anonymity provided by bustling city environments and the transient nature of event attendees exacerbate the challenge of identifying and combating sex trafficking. This makes Nebraska’s urban centers high-risk areas for this form of trafficking.

Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Nebraska

Despite these challenges, Nebraska is actively working to combat human trafficking through a multi-faceted approach. The Nebraska Human Trafficking Taskforce (NHTTF), a collaboration of law enforcement agencies, service providers, and community organizations, is at the forefront of these efforts. The NHTTF focuses on raising awareness, strengthening legislation, and providing comprehensive support services for victims.

By coordinating efforts, enhancing the capabilities of local law enforcement, and implementing prevention strategies, the NHTTF addresses the root causes of trafficking and facilitates the prosecution of traffickers. Community education programs organized by the taskforce inform the public about the signs of trafficking and how to report suspicious activities. Legislative initiatives also aim to toughen penalties for traffickers and improve protections for victims. Through these combined efforts, Nebraska is making significant strides in reducing its high-risk status for trafficking and safeguarding vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

Support and Healing for Survivors

For those who have survived trafficking, the road to recovery is challenging, but organizations like Lily Haven offer a guiding light of hope. Lily Haven, previously known as Rejuvenating Women, began as the first home for healing and restoration in Nebraska, providing both short and long-term therapeutic treatment programs specifically designed for survivors of human trafficking.

Residents at Lily Haven receive comprehensive services, including trauma counseling, case management, free tattoo branding removal, and legal assistance. The organization also focuses on education, financial literacy, job training, and life skills to empower women to thrive independently. Recognizing the profound impact of trafficking on young girls, Lily Haven is soon opening the state’s first facility dedicated to underaged girls.

Human trafficking takes a severe toll on its victims, leaving them feeling powerless and stripped of control over their lives. Through the dedicated support and its tailored programs, survivors in Nebraska can reclaim their lives, heal from their traumas, and thrive.

Ways to Support Lily Haven

Lily Haven relies on the generosity of donors to provide survivors with the support and tools needed to build a brighter future. Monthly donations help to provide a sustainable flow for the recovery home, therapeutic programming, mental health & counseling services, educational, and mentoring services for each individual served. Legacy gifts and donations of stocks are also accepted and make a world of difference to the lives of Lily Haven program participants. Visit the Lily Haven donate page to give today.

In the journey of recovery for survivors of human trafficking, creating safe and supportive environments rooted in Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) is crucial. One innovative approach gaining recognition in this realm is the use of sensory rooms. These specially designed spaces offer survivors a sanctuary for healing, offering carefully crafted sensory stimuli to promote relaxation, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.

The Role of Sensory Rooms in Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-Informed Care is one of the foundational principles of the RW program, guiding our approach to supporting survivors with empathy and empowerment. Sensory rooms align seamlessly with this philosophy, offering survivors a safe environment to control their sensory experiences. By incorporating elements such as gentle lighting and soothing sounds, these rooms provide opportunities for self-soothing, grounding, and regulation—essential skills in coping with trauma-related challenges.

Building the RW Sensory Room

With grant funding provided by the Creighton University’s Pharmacy & Health Professions’ Student Government, RW was able to realize the vision of a sensory room tailored to the unique needs of trafficking survivors. Under Dr. Andrea Thinnes’s guidance and with dedicated students from the Creighton University Department of Occupational Therapy, the room fosters safety and empowerment. Every aspect, from colors to sensory tools, was carefully considered to provide solace and begin the healing journey within the Trauma-Informed Care framework.

 

The Impact on Survivors

For survivors of human trafficking, the road to recovery can be fraught with challenges, including trauma-related triggers and difficulties in regulating emotions. The RW sensory room serves as a haven where survivors can retreat from overwhelming stimuli. Through gentle sensory experiences guided by Trauma-Informed principles, survivors cultivate mindfulness and develop coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety.

Empowering Recovery Through Sensory Exploration

Beyond its therapeutic benefits, the role of the sensory room in trauma-informed care is to provide a feeling of empowerment on their path to recovery within the Trauma-Informed framework. By providing agency over sensory experiences, it becomes a space where survivors can reclaim control and autonomy. With guided exploration and support, survivors learn to trust their instincts and build resilience, supported by Trauma-Informed principles.

Looking Ahead

The sensory room at RW will continue to evolve and adapt to meet residents’ needs with ongoing support. We’ll introduce new materials and therapies based on feedback and research, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for Trauma-Informed Care.

Future Occupational Therapists and students will lead educational sessions in the sensory room, teaching residents how to use sensory materials for coping. Through workshops and activities, residents will gain self-regulation skills and deeper sensory understanding.

In Conclusion

In the journey of recovery for survivors of human trafficking, sensory rooms represent a beacon of hope—a tangible expression of Trauma-Informed Care principles in action. By offering survivors a safe space to explore their senses, regulate their emotions, and reclaim their autonomy, these innovative environments play a vital role in fostering healing and resilience. At RW, we are honored to be part of this transformative journey, standing alongside survivors as they embark on the path towards healing, growth, and empowerment within the Trauma-Informed framework.

Increased Risk of Trafficking During Major Events and Conferences

The influx of people during major events and conferences amplifies the demand for sex trafficking, thereby creating a heightened risk of human trafficking during these times. While it’s crucial to recognize this increased risk, it’s equally important to understand that human trafficking occurs year-round and is not confined to specific events. Additionally, many Nebraska residents may not be aware that their state is a hotspot for human trafficking in general.

Identifying Human Trafficking Signs

Identifying human trafficking can be tricky. Be vigilant for signs such as:

• Increased presence of unfamiliar individuals, especially minors, in adult entertainment areas.
• Signs of physical abuse or neglect, like bruises or malnourishment.
• Reluctance to engage or make eye contact, often with a controlling individual.
• Inability to freely move or leave, indicating control by someone else.
• Signs of substance abuse, used by traffickers for control.

It is important to note that physical abuse or neglect can be signs of various forms of abuse, not just trafficking.

Reporting Procedures

If you suspect human trafficking, act safely and swiftly. Prioritize safety by:

• Assessing the situation before taking action to understand potential risks.
• Maintaining a safe distance and avoiding direct interaction with suspected traffickers.
• Staying aware of surroundings when documenting observations.
• Using discretion when documenting details or taking photographs.
• Reporting suspicious activities anonymously if concerned about personal safety.
• Seeking support from trusted individuals or organizations if feeling unsafe or unsure.

Taking Action

• Report suspicious activities to local law enforcement immediately with detailed information.
• Reach out to anti-trafficking organizations for guidance and support.
• Spread awareness and educate your community about trafficking signs and prevention.

How To Report Human Trafficking in Nebraska

• Contact the Nebraska Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-PLS-LOOK (1-833-757-5665).
• In emergencies, call 911 immediately.

Resources

• Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force: Website, Email: info@nebraskacoalition.org, Phone: (402) 476-6256
• Nebraska State Patrol: Website, Phone: (402) 471-4545
• Nebraska Attorney General’s Office: Website, Phone: (402) 471-2682

National Resources

• 24-Hour Human Trafficking Hotline: Call 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” to 233722 (BeFree) for support in over 200 languages.