TA Increasing Awareness of Human Trafficking in Time for the Big Game

TravelCenters of America (TA) and bp are sponsoring work to help find missing and endangered children near the Big Game in Las Vegas on Sunday. Human trafficking is known to increase during major sporting events and other big gatherings due to an increased demand for illicit services. 

TA and bp are collaborating with the non-profit organization, In Our Backyard to distribute TA and bp-sponsored booklets with photos of missing children in the area who are at high risk for trafficking. The booklets will be distributed at convenience stores across Las Vegas, including TA Las Vegas and Petro North Las Vegas.

Professional drivers and convenience stores are in a unique position to spot the signs of human trafficking. Traffickers use the transportation system to move their victims through the country and convenience sites have long hours of operation, ease of access and public restrooms.

Law enforcement and first responders can use tips from the community to help recover victims in the leadup to the game and post-game. Volunteers are also distributing 500,000 Freedom Stickers with the National Human Trafficking hotline number, so a victim can call or text for help. 

In addition to the booklets, TA is hosting the Freedom Driver’s Project, a Truckers Against Trafficking mobile exhibit that educates truck drivers and the public about human trafficking. On Saturday, February 10, the exhibit will be at the TA Las Vegas located at 58050 Dean Martin Drive, Las Vegas.