Black entrepreneurs have long been at the heart of economic progress, resilience, and innovation, yet the fight for economic justice and opportunity remains ongoing. This Black History Month, REST is honoring the 2025 theme, “African Americans and Labor,” by spotlighting Black-owned businesses and their vital contributions to our communities. Economic empowerment is key to breaking cycles of exploitation, including sex trafficking, and investing in Black businesses helps create sustainable opportunities and stronger communities. Throughout February, explore our curated list of Black-owned businesses, discover new ways to support Black entrepreneurship, and join us in building a more just and equitable future.
What if your resolution this year could help change lives? Start 2025 with purpose by joining the mission to end sex trafficking and create freedom, safety, and hope in our communities. Human trafficking impacts vulnerable populations right here in Seattle, including youth, those experiencing homelessness, and communities of color. This January, during National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, REST is hosting events, workshops, and advocacy campaigns to inspire action. Together, we can build a future where freedom and dignity are accessible to all.
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.
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.
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!
Discover the hidden toll of sex trafficking on survivors' mental and physical health, and learn how trauma-informed care and community support are vital for their recovery. Explore the power of holistic healing and find out how you can make a difference. Dive into this compelling blog post to uncover the paths to wellness and empowerment for survivors.
Snuggling up on your couch can be a powerful act of solidarity in our mission to end sex trafficking. With winter settling in and many of us spending our free time catching up on books, TV shows, and movies, now is the perfect time to hunker down and gain some new knowledge and perspective. By immersing yourself in books and movies, participating in virtual discussions, and supporting organizations actively engaged in the cause, you become a crucial part of the movement.
Extreme poverty is a common theme in many survivors’ stories, and extreme poverty often comes with a lack of basic needs such as food, a safe place to live, and other basic necessities. When a victim of sexual exploitation resorts to trading sex to meet basic needs, it’s called survival sex. Over the 12+ years that REST has been in operation, we’ve heard innumerable stories from survivors who have engaged in survival sex just to meet their basic needs.
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.
