The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has launched a license plate art contest in conjunction with the Department of Motor Vehicles to help victims of human trafficking.
HHSC urges the public to submit an original design for the “Stop Human Trafficking” license plate that includes the iWatchTX.org website, which is used to report suspicious activity.
Proceeds from the purchase of the “Stop Human Trafficking” will go “to providing shelter and recovery services to some of our most vulnerable and neglected children,” said Rep. Ann Johnson. She authored HB 2633 during the 87th Texas Legislature to increase awareness and help victims and survivors of human trafficking.
“Human trafficking is an issue that is often hidden in plain sight,” said Megan Bermea, director of Texas HHSC’s Office of Family Services. “We hope this specialty license plate will bring the issue to light and get the attention of more people who can help prevent the exploitation of vulnerable people.”
In conjunction with the license plate art contest, HHSC recently launched the Stop Human Trafficking donation fund. Funds and grants received by the fund will go to service providers who commit to the recovery and protection of youth affected by human trafficking. Proceeds from the sale of the license plates will also go to this fund.
The winning license plate design will be announced this summer, and the “Stop Human Trafficking” plates will be up for sale at the beginning of the fall of 2022.
The deadline to submit artwork is April 30, 2022. Contest rules and formatting requirements are available on the HHS website, and for entry information, go to HHSC Human Trafficking Resource Center website.
The signs of human and sex trafficking include, but are not limited to, the frequent treatment of sexually transmitted infections or injuries, multiple unwanted pregnancies, fractures or burns, bruising, skin or respiratory problems caused by exposure to agricultural or other chemicals, communicable and non-communicable disease, oral health issues, chronic pain, signs of concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or unexplained memory loss, and malnutrition. Human trafficking victims may also have difficulty concentrating, show signs of substance abuse, depression, or anxiety, or appear nervous or refuse eye contact.
