This January, Human Trafficking Prevention Month, One More Child team members gathered in Tallahassee for Traffick Stop 2026—a multi-day advocacy effort focused on raising awareness, strengthening partnerships, and advancing policies that protect survivors and prevent exploitation. At the Florida Capitol, we met with legislators, held a press conference alongside our partners, and hosted a Red Sand event to raise awareness and honor survivors.
Policy-Minded, Partner-Oriented
A cornerstone of Traffick Stop each year is meeting with legislators and government officials—some who are steadfast partners and others who may be hearing about One More Child for the first time. Over the course of two days, members of our leadership team, Anti-Trafficking staff, and advocates engaged in meetings with legislative leaders.
During these conversations, we shared about One More Child’s work to bring healing and hope to survivors of trafficking. We also discussed preventative solutions, such as our Anti-Trafficking Mobile Teams and education initiatives. Moreover, we explored the devastating reality of human trafficking in Florida, including policies that could protect vulnerable children and hold perpetrators accountable. Finally, we explored opportunities for partnership between policymakers and One More Child.
These meetings are essential to strengthening One More Child’s credibility and connections, with the goal of advancing thoughtful policy, offering trusted expertise, and securing resources that support vulnerable children and families across Florida.
Policymakers, Law Enforcement, Care Providers—Standing Together
On the second day of Traffick Stop, we held a press conference at the fourth floor Capitol Rotunda, raising awareness of the urgent need for action in the fight against human trafficking. To represent the need for collective, united action, our speakers represented key groups in this mission.
The following leaders spoke during the press conference, offering their voice and expertise for this vital issue. Representing Florida policymakers were Sen. Colleen Burton and Rep. Jennifer Canady, with Senate Majority Leader Jim Boyd present to show his support. We heard from the Florida Sheriffs Association Executive Director Matt Dunagan, and recognized Sara Mahoney and Toni Azinger, founders of the Florida Human Trafficking Victims Fund. Sara and Toni also presented a check to One More Child for the funds raised during the 2025 Teeing Off to End Human Trafficking Golf Tournament: a total of $150,000 raised to support our Anti-Trafficking programs. Finally, we heard from One More Child leaders, including President and CEO Stephen Robert, Foundation CEO Dr. Jerry Haag, COO Jodi Domangue, and Anti-Trafficking Team Supervisor Olivia Littleton.
This group of policymakers, law enforcement, care providers, and advocates stood together, committed to the same mission: collective action to end human trafficking.
Raising Awareness through Red Sand
Before concluding our Traffick Stop 2026 trip, we hosted a Red Sand event at the state Capitol. The Red Sand Project, a community-centered awareness project, in which participants pour red sand into sidewalk cracks, representing those who have “fallen through the cracks” and endured sexual exploitation or human trafficking. Rooted in participatory art and reflection, Red Sand events emphasize that trafficking is not an abstract issue, but a crisis that affects real people in every community.
At the Capitol, we came together to pour red sand and commit to increasing awareness and action across Florida. These visual installations served as a powerful representation of our mission and of community solidarity during National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Still More to Be Done
Traffick Stop 2026 reaffirmed that meaningful progress against human trafficking is driven by partnership, awareness, and bold action. Our collective efforts are creating momentum to protect vulnerable individuals, support survivors, and advocate for policies that can truly shift the tide.
Whether you’re a lawmaker, a government official, a businessperson, a nonprofit leader, or an individual—we invite you to join the fight. There is space for everyone to get involved as we work toward a future where human trafficking is nonexistent and children are protected from exploitation.