Safe Exit Initiative has launched a 24/7 Adult Human Trafficking Hotline for the FIFA World Cup season. The hotline runs from June 1 to September 1, 2026, and provides immediate access to trained staff and referrals during a period when large international events often increase exploitation risks.
Hotline expands emergency response during World Cup
Safe Exit Initiative created the hotline to expand access to immediate support during a period marked by increased travel and public gatherings. The service operates 24/7 at 508-688-0430 and connects callers to trained staff who provide emotional support, conduct safety assessments, and make referrals.
Staff provide crisis support, assess immediate needs, and link callers to emergency resources and community-based services. Depending on circumstances, individuals are directed to Safe Exit Initiative programs or external systems focused on stabilization and recovery.
A spokesperson for the non-profit described the hotline as a direct access point for individuals seeking help, information, or referrals related to exploitation concerns.
The organization operates survivor-centered programs including emergency shelter, transportation assistance, food and hygiene support, and medical and behavioral health referrals. Services extend across Massachusetts, Florida, and Maryland through community partnerships and direct care programs.
Safe Exit Initiative targets frontline workers across high-risk sectors
Outreach efforts focus on hospitality, transportation, and event workers positioned to identify signs of trafficking during the World Cup period. The nonprofit is conducting training sessions with district attorneys’ offices and coordinating awareness programs with local agencies.
Massachusetts has already delivered training and resource sessions for hospitality, construction, transportation, and stadium staff at Gillette Stadium. These sessions aim to strengthen identification of trafficking situations and improve referral pathways to support services.
First responders will coordinate directly with the hotline when cases are identified, linking emergency reports to Safe Exit Initiative staff and partner agencies.
State-based coverage and national referral system
The hotline primarily serves callers within Massachusetts, where Safe Exit Initiative manages intake and referral services. Callers from other states are directed to the National Human Trafficking Hotline for localized support.
Safe Exit Initiative told Charity Journal that it routes Massachusetts-based calls through its internal system to ensure direct access to programs and services, while maintaining coordination with national response networks for out-of-state cases.
The hotline collects basic demographic information, identifies language needs, and assesses immediate safety concerns before connecting callers to appropriate services. Depending on the situation, referrals may include emergency support, healthcare, or long-term recovery programs.
The service remains active through September 1, after which the organization will review call volume and outcomes to assess whether similar emergency response models should be deployed during future large-scale events.