The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is drawing attention to statewide programs and services aimed at preventing human trafficking, following Gov. Greg Abbott’s proclamation designating January 2026 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Human trafficking involves sexual exploitation or forced labor and can affect people of any age, gender, or background. In his proclamation, Gov. Abbott noted that the crime threatens public safety and violates fundamental freedoms, calling on Texans to work together to prevent and end trafficking.

Health officials are encouraging medical professionals to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of trafficking, since many victims interact with health care providers during their exploitation. Joy Borjes, associate commissioner of HHSC Family and Youth Services and Supports, said HHSC offers free training to help providers recognize potential trafficking situations and respond appropriately.

The HHSC Human Trafficking Resource Center supports statewide efforts to combat trafficking by offering information, training, and connections to services for survivors. One of its key tools is HEART—short for Hearing, Evaluating, Activating, Resourcing and Training—a free program that teaches health care providers how to identify and assist trafficking survivors. More than 109,000 providers completed HEART training between September 2024 and August 2025.

HHSC also works with the Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force, a coalition of more than 50 organizations focused on public education, victim identification, and ensuring traffickers are investigated and prosecuted. The task force also develops legislative recommendations to strengthen the state’s anti‑trafficking efforts.

Texans can support prevention initiatives by purchasing a “Stop Human Trafficking” specialty license plate, which promotes reporting through the iWatchTexas system. Proceeds help fund research, treatment, shelter, and support services for youth survivors.

Anyone who believes they have witnessed human trafficking can contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888‑373‑7888 (TTY: 711), text 233733, or use the hotline’s web chat. People should call 9‑1‑1 if someone is in immediate danger.