Survivor Stories, Survivor Voices
REST
Queen’s Path: Cultivating Purpose from Pain

From childhood trauma to years of exploitation, Queen’s life has been marked by unthinkable challenges. Yet, through sheer resilience and the right support, she found the courage to begin rebuilding her life in ways she never thought possible. Discover Queen’s inspiring journey—one of survival, strength, and a relentless pursuit of hope.

Queen’s Path: Cultivating Purpose from Pain
Education
REST
Understanding the Link Between Domestic ...

This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we’re shedding light on the link between domestic violence and sex trafficking. Both involve manipulation, isolation, and control, leaving survivors vulnerable. At REST, we offer support through our crisis hotline, emergency shelter, and other services. Learn how you can recognize the signs, take action, and support survivors.

Understanding the Link Between Domestic Violence and Sex Trafficking
REST News, REST Staff
REST
Welcoming Elizabeth Hodges as REST’s New CEO: A ...

We are excited to announce Elizabeth Hodges as REST's new CEO. With over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Elizabeth is deeply committed to our mission of supporting survivors of sex trafficking. Her extensive background in strengthening communities facing social and economic barriers, along with her passion for empowering vulnerable populations, makes her the ideal leader for REST. Join us in welcoming Elizabeth as she leads us into this next chapter of growth and impact!

Welcoming Elizabeth Hodges as REST’s New CEO: A New Chapter of Hope and Leadership
Events, Give REST
REST
Experience A Night of REST: A Transformative ...

Guess what?! A Night of REST is just one month away on Thursday, October 17th! This year’s theme is “Cultivating Courage & Strength,” reflecting the incredible resilience of survivors and our shared commitment to walking alongside them on their healing journeys toward independence. Don't miss out on this inspiring evening—dinner, storytelling, and community, all in support of a powerful cause. Seats are going fast, so secure your tickets before they're sold out. Purchase your ticket today!

Experience A Night of REST: A Transformative Evening for Change
Education
REST
The Silent Suffering: Suicide Risks Among Sex ...

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and it's crucial to recognize the high suicide risk among sex trafficking survivors. These individuals face severe mental health challenges, with many suffering from depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation due to the extreme trauma they've endured. Effective prevention requires trauma-informed care, accessible mental health services, supportive communities, and crisis intervention. Let's raise awareness and support survivors by advocating for better mental health resources to help them heal and prevent suicide. Together, we can make a difference.

The Silent Suffering: Suicide Risks Among Sex Trafficking Survivors

Education

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10 Ways You Can Help End Sexual Exploitation

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10 Ways You Can Help End Sexual Exploitation

“What can I do?” We hear this question—in all of its nuances—a lot at REST—and we love this question.

When first learning about the problem of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation—that thousands of women, men, and children are being exploited right here in the United States every day, it can be paralyzing. It can feel hopeless. The problem can feel too big for any one person to make a difference.

But—as long as there are people who respond to hearing of pain and suffering with the desire (met with action) to make the world a better place—there is hope. As long as people are still asking the question, “What can I do?” or, “What can *I* do?”, we will respond with options.

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What *is* sex trafficking?

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January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month. As we join the many voices raising awareness this month, we want to take some time to offer some clarity around the language we use, and help correct some common misconceptions.

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The marriage of racism and misogyny in the sex trade

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The marriage of racism and misogyny in the sex trade

When we look at the demographics of the sex trade here in King County, we see an enormous disparity—one that reflects the commodification of Black women’s bodies. As we look to dismantle present-day systemic racism, we must understand its roots to be able to begin to unravel the centuries of legal oppression. This blog examines some of that history.

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There is no “fair trade” certification for porn.

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There is no “fair trade” certification for porn.

There is no “fair trade” stamp for pornographic content—pornography consumers have no way of knowing if sexual acts they are viewing are consensual. There is no enforceable measure for “ethical production”. Even if it’s something that looks consensual or caring, there’s no guarantee that force, fraud, or coercion wasn’t involved. Whether it’s Pornhub, any of the other porn companies owned by MindGeek, or other companies that create, host, or purvey pornographic content—there is just simply no telling whether content features exclusively consensual acts—and was shared online with entirely unforced consent.

Most of the photographs on this website are stock photography, featuring models used for illustrative purposes only. With few carefully evaluated exceptions, we do not publish or share photos of REST clients.

REST is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization | EIN #45-3531020