RALEIGH, N.C.-- With major interstates like I-40 and I-85 running through the Tar Heel state, North Carolina is thought to have one of the highest rates of human trafficking in the country.

• There were 221 reported human trafficking cases in the state last year alone
• The Department of Homeland Security is working to combat human trafficking through the Blue Campaign
• If you have any questions about the program, you can call or visit DHS’s Blue Campaign website

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, there were 221 reported human trafficking cases in the state last year alone. However, it's not just the major cities like Raleigh, Greensboro and Charlotte, but the suburbs and rural areas also facing this tragic reality.  

For the eighth year, the Department of Homeland Security is working to combat human trafficking through the Blue Campaign. The program works with law enforcement, the government and private organizations to try and combat human trafficking. 

However, the problem doesn’t discriminate. Victims are of many backgrounds, including different ages, genders, socioeconomic levels and ethnicities. Unfortunately, trauma can be so prevalent that victims don’t identify themselves or ask for help.

According to Homeland Security, we all must be the eyes and ears for victims. Just like the counter terrorism push, if you see something, say something. 

They urge everyone to report a suspected case or anything suspicious to law enforcement. If you have any questions about the program, you can call or visit DHS’s Blue Campaign website.