Each year, major events like the Super Bowl bring together millions of fans, creating an atmosphere of excitement, celebration, and connection. While these gatherings highlight the power of community, they also present an opportunity to reflect on the hidden crises that persist in our society year-round, such as sex trafficking.
The widely repeated myth that the Super Bowl causes a spike in human trafficking has been repeatedly debunked—there is no evidence that it is the largest trafficking event in the world or that major sporting events drive significant increases in trafficking. However, the influx of people and heightened demand for various services—including commercial sex—can increase vulnerabilities and exploitation in host cities. It’s critical to emphasize that sex trafficking is not confined to major events; it is a pervasive issue happening every day in communities across the nation.
The Reality of Sex Trafficking Year-Round
Sex trafficking affects individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, though vulnerable populations such as youth, those experiencing homelessness, and marginalized communities face higher risks. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH), 10,360 cases of human trafficking were reported in the United States in 2021, involving 16,554 potential victims—with many more cases likely going unreported.
Traffickers exploit vulnerabilities, using coercion, deception, and violence to control their victims. While major events like the Super Bowl may amplify risks in specific areas, the systems enabling trafficking—poverty, inequality, lack of education, and systemic barriers—exist year-round.
The Importance of Ethical Awareness
Linking trafficking solely to events like the Super Bowl can perpetuate myths that distract from the everyday realities survivors face. Instead, these events can serve as a platform to amplify awareness, spark conversations, and mobilize action to combat trafficking holistically.
A Survivor’s Story: A MOD Pizza Employee on Giving Back
One of the most powerful ways to understand the impact of sex trafficking—and the hope that exists for survivors—is to hear directly from someone who has walked that journey. A MOD Pizza employee shared the following personal testimony:
“Giving back to the community is one of my biggest passions because I now have the ability to be the person that I needed at one point. Struggling with the effects of surviving sex trafficking, I just needed someone who cared unconditionally and wanted to help despite what I had been through. I received help from an organization centered around the healing journey of survivors, and I had an advocate who helped me fight the court battles and ultimately send my traffickers to prison. If I didn’t have an advocate to stand by me, I’m not sure I would have been able to do any of that on my own. Not only do organizations like these help with legal support, but they also help with the raw truth of re-learning how to love yourself and finding your passions again.
Working at MOD has been one of the most impactful things I’ve ever done. My first day at MOD was the same day as my traffickers’ sentencing, and that day I chose to continue with this new chapter of my life. After that, I was set on making a difference with the platform that MOD gives me to host fundraisers and be able to donate back to amazing organizations like REST. I hope the money we raise can give them the ability to help someone who needs the support like I once did.”
This firsthand account underscores why comprehensive support—from advocacy to emotional healing—is vital for survivors. It also shows how community-driven workplaces like MOD Pizza can empower individuals to give back and create new pathways to freedom for others still caught in the cycle of trafficking.
How You Can Help This Super Bowl Weekend
This year, we’re inviting you to make a difference during National Pizza Day on Sunday, Feb. 9, which happens to align with Super Bowl weekend. REST has partnered with MOD Pizza to turn every slice into a step toward freedom for survivors.
Here’s how you can help:
Order Pizza: Plan your game-day meal from MOD Pizza on Feb. 9 and use code MODGIVES25 at participating locations. REST will receive 25% of sales from this fundraiser, directly supporting our mission to provide freedom, safety, and hope for survivors of sex trafficking.
Spread the Word: Even if you’re not ordering pizza, encourage your friends, family, and social networks to participate.
Share on Social Media: Post about the fundraiser (and if you order a pizza) using #iwantrest, #modpizza, #nationalpizzaday, and #SuperBowlLIX. Don’t forget to also tag REST so we can share on our pages!
Participating Locations:
1302 6th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
317 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue, WA 98004
34817 Snoqualmie Pkwy, Suite 110, Snoqualmie, WA 98065
1464 Highlands Dr NE, Issaquah, WA 98029
3626 Market Place W, Suite 105, University Place, WA 98466
This is an easy and impactful way to enjoy the big game while making a meaningful contribution to your community. Together, we can light the way for survivors and ensure that hope and dignity are accessible to all.
Order your pizza and help light the way for survivors this National Pizza Day!