A snapshot: April 2020

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[[link removed]] Dear John,

Since the onset of COVID-19, Polaris has been tracking data reported to the U.S.
National Human Trafficking Hotline. According to our analysis, the impact of the
pandemic and subsequent quarantine may already be leading to an escalation of
sex and labor trafficking. Our snapshot
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pre-shelter-in-place periods. Key findings include: • The number of crisis trafficking cases handled by the Trafficking Hotline
increased by more than 40% in the month following the shelter-in-place orders compared to the same period
in 2019, and the number of situations in which people needed immediate emergency
shelter nearly doubled. • A greater need for stable housing and resources for at-risk communities, victims, and survivors now more than ever to ensure
the pandemic does not further contribute to the epidemic of sex and labor
trafficking in the U.S.
Polaris is highlighting this urgent need for more shelter as city, county,
state, and federal governments consider how their resources can be directed to
mitigate the effects of COVID-19. Our recommendations are the first in a planned
series presenting timely analysis and evidence to guide efforts to respond to
emerging needs as a result of the pandemic.

The Trafficking Hotline is not a definitive measure for U.S. sex and labor
trafficking prevalence. Our analysis explores the important correlation among
crisis cases, shelter, demand, and COVID-19.

To read the full snapshot, please click here
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In Solidarity,

Catherine Chen
Chief Program Officer

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© 2020 Polaris is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
P.O. Box 65323, Washington, D.C. 20036
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