As someone working directly with children in the foster care system, I come face-to-face with the harrowing reality of child human trafficking every day. This issue hits close to home for me, for the community of Collin County, and for much of Texas.

There is a distressing link between the foster care system and child human trafficking. The Administration for Children and Families estimates that over half of the child trafficking victims in the USA had some contact with the foster care system. This connection is not a coincidence but a planned hunting ground for human traffickers examining the most vulnerable among us.

Endemic problems within the foster care system such as frequently changing placements, low monitoring levels, and lack of committed mentors or parental figures often leave foster children feeling isolated and without support. This makes them ideal targets for traffickers who manipulate and exploit these situations and fears.

The purpose of this petition is not to disparage the entire foster care system because we recognize the need and intention to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children. However, it is of the utmost importance that we address this grim reality that plagues children within our care.

Let's bring this alarming issue to the forefront and demand action from local and state officials in Collin County. Let's involve our legislators, law enforcement agencies, and foster care organizations in a committed effort to implement preventive measures, and stricter regulations, and provide additional support to foster families and children.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for the safety, security, and future of the foster care system children residing within Collin County. You are speaking out against child human trafficking. Stand with us as we work towards a safer future for these children.  Again please sign this petition and ask your local foster care agency to help support the cause. Do not forget to share widely.