AUSTIN, Texas — Ride-sharing app Uber and the National Center for Missing & Exploited children announced a plan to help driver-partners recognize the signs of human trafficking in Texas.

“As part of our commitment to this cause, we’ll be providing an in-app message to our driver-partners across the state that includes information about available resources and encourages our driver-partners to be vigilant,” said David Brightman, general manager for Uber Texas.

The information will include tips and signs of what to look for in people who are being trafficked. Traffickers frequently move victims between locations, and they hope is the initiative will raise awareness and educate driver-partners while they are traveling around the city.

According to NCMEC, one in seven endangered runaways reported to the organization in 2017 was likely a child sex trafficking victim, and the average age of child sex trafficking victims reported missing to NCMEC is only 15 years old.

”Child sex trafficking is a significant problem in our country, but we all have the power to make a difference in these children’s lives,” John Clark, NCMEC’s president and CEO said. “Together, we’re building a network of people and organizations who are dedicated to bringing the victims the care they need and the justice they deserve.”  

The initiative coincides with Gov. Greg Abbott’s proclamation of Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Texas.