Every year, many boys and young men become victims of sex trafficking, a crisis often overlooked in anti-trafficking efforts. To address this issue, Bob's House for Hope, Titus Transport, and the Texas Trucking Association (TXTA) are launching a new trucking campaign titled "Boys and Young Men are Sex Trafficked Too." The initiative will be announced at a press conference on January 29, 2025, at the Texas Capitol.
"As proud Texans, we are honored to lead the nation with this new initiative as part of a global effort during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month," said Bob Williams, Founder and CEO of Ranch Hand Rescue and Bob's House of Hope. "We are incredibly excited for this multi-pronged partnership between our non-profit, the trucking industry and state government to help spread the critical message that boys are sex trafficked too."
The campaign will include stickers placed on semi-trucks to spread awareness across the United States. An 18-wheeler featuring the sticker will be displayed at the event.
"Advertising a hotline phone number on Titus Transport trucks is something I am honored to do. Just the opportunity to save one trafficked life makes this collaboration worthwhile," said Titus Transport CEO and State Senator Brent Hagenbuch.
Launched during National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, this initiative aims to raise public awareness about the exploitation of boys and young men in sex trafficking. It encourages trucking companies across Texas and beyond to adopt similar campaigns while supporting survivors through resources like Bob's House of Hope.
"Human trafficking is a heinous crime that strips individuals of their fundamental rights," said Senator Tan Parker. "This session, we will continue the fight, ensuring Texas has the resources to help all victims."
The trucking industry's commitment extends beyond transportation by creating a network of awareness across highways. This campaign uses truckers' visibility to highlight an important issue.
"Every day in our state, criminals are illegally trafficking people across Texas roads," said Representative Ben Bumgarner. "Through this campaign, motorists across the state will be reminded that boys and young men are also at risk."
Building on existing initiatives like billboard campaigns in 70 cities, this effort leverages trucking mobility to spread its message widely.
"This campaign represents a monumental step forward in addressing the hidden crisis," said John D. Esparza, TXTA President and CEO.
"Human trafficking is currently the second largest criminal enterprise in the world," said Lt. Greg Reyero from Texas Department of Public Safety. "Bob’s House of Hope shines a light on this issue by taking a trauma-informed approach."
