Protect Children from Exploitation and Trafficking
Child trafficking isn't just a problem far away. It's a problem here at home.
Across America, countless children become the victims of trafficking and sexual exploitation every day. Homeless and runaway youths are at particular risk. They are bought and sold. They are exploited and abused. They work in our restaurants, bars, hotels and farms right under very our eyes. But we don't even know it.
It's a heartbreaking and infuriating crisis. But, right now, we have a critical chance to help save vulnerable children from trafficking here in the U.S.
The Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act, currently before Congress, would take crucial steps toward protecting at-risk children from trafficking. The bill would provide vital shelter, trauma services and support for those children who need help the most.
Take action today and join UNICEF in urging our lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to help these exploited children.
Dear Congress,
I am writing to urge you to support the passage of the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act, S.262 and H.R. 1779, to reauthorize and provide critical updates to the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (42 U.S.C. 5701 et seq.), which expired in September 2013.
In communities across America — including ours — homeless and runaway youth are more likely to struggle to stay in school, and at greater risk of being trafficked or sexually exploited.
The Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act supports family intervention and reunification services to help prevent trafficking and sexual exploitation, and improves services for youth who have been victims of trafficking or sexual exploitation.
I urge you to cosponsor S. 262 or H.R. 1779 to improve the support system for some of America's most vulnerable youth, helping prevent trafficking and assist trafficking victims.
[Your comment here]
Sincerely,
[Your name here]
