Human Trafficking

Common Misconceptions About Human Trafficking:

A lot of what people picture when they hear “human trafficking” is straight out of a movie. This is exactly what makes it so hard to spot in real life. Here are some myths surrounding human trafficking:

  • It’s not always about strangers snatching people off the street. Kidnapping and physical chains are rare. Most trafficking happens through grooming and manipulation by someone the person already knows, like a boyfriend, family member, friend, or someone they depend on.

  • It can happen anywhere. This isn’t just a big-city problem. It exists in suburbs, small towns, and right here in El Paso County and the surrounding areas. No community is immune.

  • Survivors often don’t see themselves as “trafficked” at first. Many don’t realize what’s happening to them until they’re deep in it, or they’re too scared, ashamed, or dependent to label their experience as “trafficking”.

  • It doesn’t discriminate. Trafficking affects people of every age, gender, race, and background. It’s not limited to any one “type” of person.

  • It’s not just sex trafficking. Many cases involve forced labor, domestic servitude, or a mix of both. People get trapped in jobs, farms, hotels, restaurants, and other industries.

  • “Just leave” is way more dangerous and complicated than it sounds. Walking away isn’t simple when someone controls your money, your ID, your housing, or your safety. Leaving can put the survivor, and sometimes their loved ones, at serious risk.

  • It’s rarely nonstop physical violence. Traffickers are experts at psychological control, using fear, threats, guilt, debt, isolation, and emotional manipulation to keep people trapped. Bruises aren’t always part of the picture.

The more we understand how trafficking actually works, the better we can recognize the signs and support people who need help.

If you or someone you know is in a difficult situation, reach out to our 24/7 Safeline: (719) 633-3819

Human Trafficking Support at TESSA

TESSA provides confidential support to survivors of human trafficking, along with those experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Our advocates offer safety planning, crisis intervention, emotional support, and connections to community resources. Our 24/7 Safeline is available anytime you or someone you know needs help, information, or support: (719) 633-3819.

Safehouse

TESSA’s confidential Safehouse offers emergency shelter and basic needs support for survivors escaping unsafe or exploitative situations, including human trafficking. We provide a secure, trauma-informed environment focused on immediate safety and stabilization for individuals and their children.

Children & Teens

Children and teens impacted by human trafficking or exploitation can access services designed to help them feel safe, heard, and empowered in their healing. This includes age-appropriate advocacy, emotional support, and resources tailored to young survivors and their families.

Housing

TESSA’s housing program helps survivors of human trafficking work toward long-term stability. We provide housing navigation, resource connections, and practical assistance to help secure and maintain safe, sustainable housing after leaving exploitative situations.

Legal

TESSA’s legal advocates help survivors understand their rights and navigate the legal system. Support includes protection orders, family law matters, court accompaniment, and addressing other legal barriers related to safety and recovery from human trafficking.

Clinical Services

Our clinical team offers trauma-responsive therapy and mental health support for survivors of human trafficking. In a safe, supportive setting, survivors can access individual and group therapy focused on healing, developing coping skills, and rebuilding emotional well-being at their own pace.

Outreach & Prevention

TESSA delivers community education and prevention presentations on human trafficking awareness, warning signs, healthy relationships, and available resources. These sessions are available for schools, workplaces, faith groups, and other organizations.