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Abuse & Trafficking

Disaster situations can make individuals more vulnerable to human trafficking and other forms of interpersonal violence and abuse. Need help? You are not alone and this is not your fault.

If you are in immediate physical danger, know that 911 can quickly connect you to medical, fire, and police. Stay calm, provide clear details, and know that your location can be tracked even if you do not speak.

The hotlines listed below are also available to help you create a safe exit plan or to support you in supporting others.

On This Page

Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention

Interpersonal Violence Resources

More About This Info

These resources were originally crowdsourced by the Asheville, NC community in the weeks immediately after Hurricane Helene. Some of this info has been recently updated, but please contact listed orgs to confirm the most current information.

While our goal is to offer useful information, we do not endorse external content or take responsibility for how it is used. Please review these resources carefully and make the decisions that work best for you.

Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention

Hotline For Human Trafficking (National)

Disaster situations can make folks more vulnerable to trafficking. If you or someone you know may be at risk, the National Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24/7 for support across the United States. It offers help in over 200 languages and can guide you on what to do if you're worried about someone's safety.

Recognizing the Signs that Someone Is Being Trafficked

Human trafficking can happen in close relationships, such as with family members or partners. Sometimes, parents or intimate partners force others (often daughters or partners) to do sexual things for money.

Someone being trafficked might not ask for help, but these signs can indicate they need assistance:

  • Physical Appearance: Injuries, untreated wounds, extreme tiredness, or signs of not eating enough.
  • Behavior: Acting scared, withdrawn, or controlled in what they say. They may avoid talking about their situation.
  • Restricted Freedom: Always accompanied by someone, unable to go places alone, or lacking ID and money. They may be isolated from help or forced to keep relationships secret.
  • Confusion: Not knowing where they are, the time, or their surroundings.
  • Financial Control: Relying entirely on the trafficker for basic needs and having no control over their money.

Identifying Suspicious People and Activities

Human traffickers often target people they can control. Be aware of these warning signs:

  • Strangers in Key Areas: Unfamiliar people lingering near shelters, public transportation, or crowded places.
  • Overly Personal Questions: Asking for too much personal information or offering jobs or housing that seem too good to be true.
  • Isolating Behavior: Trying to separate someone from a group or discouraging them from talking to others.
  • Controlled Movements: One person dictating or monitoring someone else’s every action.

Keep an eye out for these signs, and if something feels off, sharing your concerns can help protect people from harm.

Interpersonal Violence Resources

If You Suspect Abuse

Recognizing the Signs of Abuse

Hotlines for Support

Disaster situations can make folks more vulnerable to experiencing interpersonal violence (‘domestic violence’ and/or sexual abuse). Interpersonal violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or income.

Abuse isn’t just physical; it can also be emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial. If you or someone you know is going through any form of abuse, remember that help is available. No one should face abuse alone.

If You Suspect Abuse

If you think someone might be experiencing abuse, it’s important to be gentle, understanding, and respectful. Let them know they’re not alone, and encourage them to reach out for support. Don’t expect them to leave the situation right away.

Recognizing the Signs of Abuse

Abuse can show up in different ways. Look for these signs:

  • Physical Abuse: Unexplained injuries, frequent visits to the doctor, or aggressive behavior.
  • Emotional Abuse: Actions like humiliation, threats, or insults meant to control or harm.
  • Sexual Abuse: Any unwanted sexual contact, pressure, or assault that violates consent.
  • Psychological and Financial Control: Isolating someone from loved ones, controlling their money, or monitoring their activities.

Hotlines for Support

If you or someone you know is experiencing interpersonal violence, there are many ways to get help:

North Carolina Resources

National Resources (Can direct you to local resources)

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline
    Call 1-800-799-7233
    Text "START" to 88788
    Visit     www.thehotline.org
  • RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
    Call 1-800-656-4673
    Visit www.rainn.org 

Additional LGBTQIA+ Resources

Abuse can happen in any relationship. Queer and trans folks – particularly QTPOC – can face extra challenges when trying to get help. In addition to the resources listed above, check out these hotlines specifically for queer and trans folks:

Queer & Trans Survivor Hotlines

  • The Network/La Red: Provides culturally aware support for LGBTQIA+ and QTPOC people experiencing interpersonal violence. Visit The Network/La Red
  • Trans Lifeline: 24/7 hotline staffed by trans people for trans people. Visit The Trans Lifeline
  • The Trevor Project: 24/7 crisis counseling for LGBTQIA+ youth. Visit The Trevor Project

Last updated: January 18, 2025, 6:11 pm