Data-Driven Approaches to Address Human Trafficking in Florida

• In Event: From Siloed Data to Comprehensive Insights: The Role of Collaboration in Addressing Human Trafficking

Abstract

Accurate and complete data collection has been a challenge in Florida for those working in human trafficking services, policy, advocacy, justice, and social services systems. Florida has made significant strides to address this issue through initiatives at the University of South Florida’s Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Research Lab. TIPSTR, established through SB 7064, is operational, offering Florida a comprehensive and accurate picture of human trafficking incidents, hotspots, and trends. The BRIGHT Project, launched as a mobile application, is a vetted resource referral network for human trafficking service providers. BRIGHT is actively connecting providers across the entire state, while simultaneously gathering and disseminating information on resource availability and needs. Together, these initiatives are enhancing the fields’ understanding of the true scope of human trafficking in Florida, thereby informing and improving anti-trafficking efforts statewide. Lessons learned, challenges faced, and suggestions for others on the development of these initiatives will be discussed.

Authors

• Joan Reid, University of South Florida

• Shelly M. Wagers, University of South Florida

• Kailey Pate Carter, University of South Florida