
The Shameful Truth Texans Need to Know About Human Trafficking
A Heartbreaking Reality
I’ve always been deeply troubled by stories of human trafficking, especially the ones involving children, forced into manual labor or prostitution. It’s not just men who are doing this, I've learned that in some cases, women approach and trap other women and children, which makes the betrayal and manipulation feel even more heartbreaking. In my opinion, these traffickers, regardless of gender, should face life in prison. I believe that by staying vigilant and supporting organizations that fight this evil, we can keep our communities safer from these heartless predators.
Standing Against Human Trafficking in Abilene
In October 2020, I witnessed the power of our community come together when our radio station partnered with Beyond Trafficking, back then a relatively new Texas-based nonprofit that rescues and supports the survivors of human trafficking. We joined the “Walk for Freedom” downtown Abilene, where hundreds gathered to march in solidarity. The City Mayor spoke passionately about the urgent need to stop human trafficking in our city and across Texas.
The Shameful Truth Exposed
For the past five years, Beyond Trafficking operated out of restaurants, coffee shops, libraries, and even people’s homes. Today, they finally have their own office space on the second floor of the First Financial Bank building at 3300 South 14th Street. Founder and Executive Director Stephanie Andrade-Rocha underscores the importance of this milestone: “I believe that Texas leads in human trafficking, and West Texas is a super highway for human trafficking,” she says. She’s confident that having a dedicated office will serve as a secure sanctuary where survivors can find the support and resources they need.

A Record-Breaking Year of Growth
Looking back on 2024, Beyond Trafficking celebrates remarkable progress. They served more survivors than ever, helping individuals and families rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Their educational and awareness campaigns now reach far beyond Abilene, and a new base in Colorado has broadened their reach to support survivors nationwide.
What Human Trafficking Looks Like In 2025 and Beyond
Undeterred by the enormity of the challenge, Beyond Trafficking plans to expand survivor programs that provide legal, healthcare, and reintegration assistance. They also aim to bring preventive education to more rural communities, places especially vulnerable due to limited resources. Looking even further ahead, they will continue forming new partnerships to get more people out of the shadows of trafficking.
Here's How You Can Help
None of these accomplishments would be possible without donors, volunteers, partner organizations, and community members who share a passion for justice. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call Beyond Trafficking’s toll-free hotline at 888-373-7888. For more information on how to volunteer, donate, or learn more about keeping our community safe, visit BeyondTrafficking.org or call the local office at 325-338-2166.
Remember to proudly wear your blue shirts in January to show your solidarity, and support for National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
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