As the world turns its eyes toward Kansas City and Lawrence for the 2026 World Cup, our excitement is high—but our guard must be even higher.
Large-scale sporting events bring incredible energy to Northeast Kansas, but they also bring a hidden risk. Historically, these global windows have seen a sharp increase in the demand for human trafficking. Right here in Lawrence and the surrounding areas, vulnerable individuals are at heightened risk for human trafficking.
The Willow provides shelter and specialized advocacy for survivors of human trafficking while working in tandem with other Lawrence agencies, including the Sexual Assault and Trauma CARE Center. Together, we play a crucial role in keeping our amazing community safe as hundreds of thousands of people visit it.
We aren't just spectators. We are the defense.
We are launching our "A Goal Worth Defending" campaign to ensure that while the matches are played, survivors in our local community have a safe place to land. Your gift will fund:
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Emergency Shelter: 24/7 safe housing at a confidential location capable of accommodating survivors and their children.
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Increased Prevention: Provide Specialized training for the community to help prevent human trafficking of our community members and to spot & stop trafficking in our city.
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Specialized Advocacy: Free and confidential support from advocates trained to help survivors navigate legal systems and rebuild their lives.
Will you join the team?
A gift of $50 can help provide crisis hotline support for someone in immediate danger.
A gift of $100 can help supply a survivor with essentials when they arrive at our shelter.
A gift of $250 can help support a night of safe shelter, advocacy, and care.
Let's make sure the legacy of the World Cup in Kansas isn't just about the scoreboard—it's about the lives we protected together. Help us spread the word! Share this fundraiser with fellow fans to ensure our community stays safe during the games.