True to its mission of empowering women and girls, the Soroptimist International Santa Clara Silicon Valley (SISCSV) has stepped up to support female survivors of human trafficking in a practical way.

SISCSV, with a membership of 28, was moved to action when they heard firsthand the personal story of trafficking survivor Jenna McKaye at the Soroptimist Sierra Pacific regional conference in Milpitas last May. They purchased, filled, and, on Nov. 4, donated 60 backpacks to a YWCA program that provides women referred by partner organizations and local law enforcement with backpacks for those who have escaped trafficking.

Individuals rescued from sex or labor trafficking usually escape with nothing but what they are wearing.  A backpack filled with personal items is often their first possession on the road to freedom.

“We know the first step is to feel the ability to take back their lives, so the items put in the backpacks bring immediate comfort—things like soft throw blankets, cell phone chargers, and hygiene supplies,” said SISCSV Board member Michele Paolini.

“The first step of care after being rescued is so important. Our members felt passionate, wanting to help in any way for women and girls to take their lives back,” said Paolini, who, along with SISCSV President Emma Brunner and long-time member Marilee Dunn, spearheaded the backpack drive. 

McKaye, the regional conference speaker, is now an advocate for trafficking victims and survivors. She points out that educating young people and the community about trafficking is key to prevention—and to rescue.

“Soroptimists know that helping and encouraging women and girls to find their dreams for their future can create a ripple effect for bettering our community,” said Brunner. “We believe in their potential from any circumstance. That means helping and creating awareness of human trafficking, especially with FIFA and the Super Bowl coming to our area.”

Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara is hosting Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, and the FIFA World Cup from June 13 to July 1, 2026, events that draw hundreds of thousands and spark an increase in the exploitation of trafficked individuals.

To inquire about how your organization can participate in the Anti-Trafficking Services backpack program of the Golden Gate Silicon Valley YWCA, contact philanthropy@yourywca.org. To date in 2025, companies such as Cisco and organizations such as SISCSV have donated 160 backpacks. The need is ongoing and year-round, not just during large sporting events.

To report suspected human trafficking to Federal law enforcement, call 1(866) 347-2423.

To get help from the National Human Trafficking Hotline, call 1(888) 373-7888 or text HELP or INFO to BeFree (233733).

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SCPD, Other Local Agencies Attend Conference on Human Trafficking in Preparation for Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup