VOADV Human Trafficking Summit Addresses Safety Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Volunteers of America Delaware Valley hosted its fifth annual Human Trafficking Summit on April 22, 2026, at The Stone Terrace in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, convening police chiefs, physicians, and state legislators to coordinate protections for vulnerable residents as the region prepares to host millions of visitors for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the organization reported.

The summit, titled “A Path To Safety: The Healthcare Connection,” ran from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and zeroed in on a specific vulnerability: healthcare settings often serve as the first—and sometimes only—safe touchpoint for trafficking victims. With the World Cup drawing global attention to the New York-New Jersey region next summer, organizers framed the gathering as an urgent preparation rather than a routine conference.

Healthcare Workers on the Front Line

Dr. Nicole Harris-Hollingsworth, Senior Vice President of Social Impact & Population Health at Hackensack Meridian Health, delivered a keynote presentation that placed medical professionals at the center of detection efforts.

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“Healthcare professionals are on the front lines and often represent the first, and sometimes only, safe and trusted touchpoint for a victim of human trafficking. At Hackensack Meridian Health, we see it as our fundamental responsibility to not only treat a patient’s immediate medical needs but also to address the underlying social factors that make them vulnerable. This Summit is a critical step in strengthening the ecosystem of care and protection. By working hand-in-hand with law enforcement and community organizations, we can ensure that as our region welcomes the world for the 2026 World Cup, we have a robust network ready to identify those at risk, provide a safe haven, and connect them with the comprehensive resources they need to reclaim their lives.”

Her comments explain why this year’s summit focused on healthcare: many patients treated in hospitals and clinics never come into contact with police, so medical workers often spot early warning signs.

Police Chiefs Sound the Alarm

Chief Andrew Caggiano, President of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, opened the event with a keynote address warning that major sporting events historically attract traffickers who exploit surges in travel and demand.

“Major international sporting events like the 2026 World Cup are known to attract human traffickers who exploit the surge in travel, tourism, and demand. As law enforcement leaders, we cannot afford to wait until this premier tournament begins to act. That is why collaborative efforts like the Volunteers of America Delaware Valley Human Trafficking Summit are so critically important — bringing together law enforcement, healthcare professionals, legislators, and advocacy organizations now, so that we are prepared, coordinated, and ready to protect the most vulnerable members of our communities when the world comes to New Jersey this summer.”

Lieutenant Colonel David Sierotowicz, Deputy Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police and Incident Commander for FIFA NY/NJ World Cup, detailed the operational response underway. He noted that large-scale events present increased opportunities for trafficking activity and outlined training programs targeting venue staff, hotel employees, transportation providers, and fans. Warning signs include individuals who appear fearful or controlled, avoid eye contact, cannot speak for themselves, or lack personal documents.

Legislators Pledge Coordinated Action

State Senators Vincent J. Polistina and Angela McKnight, both participants in the summit’s roundtable panel, emphasized that Atlantic County and surrounding districts remain active trafficking corridors requiring sustained legislative attention. Polistina highlighted the need for service coordination among hospitals, law enforcement, and policy experts to engage survivors effectively. McKnight framed the issue as a matter of protecting vulnerable populations while ensuring the World Cup remains safe for all attendees.

The summit concluded with an interactive roundtable featuring experts from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the New Jersey State Police Human Trafficking Unit, the New York City Police Department, and VOADV leadership. Attendees were encouraged to identify what survivors and at-risk populations need most as the tournament approaches.

Building the Safety Net Before Kickoff

Amanda Leese, VOADV Senior Vice President of Program Operations, explained the strategic timing of the fifth annual summit. Each year, VOADV serves more than 13,000 individuals across southern New Jersey and the Philadelphia region through over 40 assistance programs, including specialized services for trafficking victims.

“With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, our focus is on strengthening the partnerships and systems that are necessary in identifying and supporting survivors,” Leese said. “Healthcare settings are uniquely positioned as critical connection points, and by coming together to discuss awareness, prevention and response strategies, we can create more opportunities to support those most at risk.”

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