Cy-Fair High School Junior Takes Youth-Led Anti-Human Trafficking Nonprofit International
In northwest Houston, where human trafficking often goes unnoticed despite its prevalence, one high school student is working to bring the issue out of the shadows and into the spotlight—starting in her own community.
Chloe Lee, a junior at Cy-Fair High School, is the founder of Empty Streets, now the world’s largest youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking and supporting survivors, according to a report by Mackenzie Atkins, a Cy-Fair High School journalism student. What began as a personal passion project has grown into a multi-chapter movement that’s not only making an impact in Greater Houston, but also in states across the country—and soon, halfway around the world.
“I see people helping homeless people, helping kids diagnosed with cancer and mental health patients,” Lee said. “I didn’t see much help targeting the human trafficking issue that we have in our community, so I thought it would be a great idea to start this organization.”
A Local Response to a Global Crisis
Lee’s inspiration came from her own community. Houston currently ranks No. 1 in the United States for human trafficking cases, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. With its large population, international airports, and access to major highways, the city has become a national hub for trafficking networks. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services reports that more than 300,000 people are trafficked in Texas annually, including nearly 79,000 children.
Globally, human trafficking is a $150 billion criminal industry affecting over 27.6 million people, according to the International Labour Organization and the U.S. Department of State. Victims may be coerced into forced labor or commercial sex acts. When minors are involved, any commercial sex act is considered trafficking—regardless of coercion.
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Expanding Empty Streets Across the Nation
Lee launched Empty Streets to fill a gap she felt was deeply needed in the Cy-Fair community: youth-focused activism and education around human trafficking prevention. Since its inception, the organization has established chapters at multiple CFISD high schools including Bridgeland, Cypress Falls, Cypress Park, and Cypress Woods. But its reach doesn’t stop there.
Empty Streets now has active chapters in California, Georgia, New York, and Michigan, and is currently establishing a new branch in Lee’s home country of South Korea—making it a truly international force for change.
The organization provides direct support to survivors, including meal packs, dental care assistance, and hygiene kits. Fundraisers help supply shelters and support law enforcement efforts to protect vulnerable populations. Most recently, Empty Streets donated $1,500 to the Harris County Constable's Office Precinct 1.
“In total we have donated more than 2,000 meal packs and 39 hygiene kits to survivors,” Lee said. “We also focus on raising awareness and educating others to help prevent future cases.”
Awareness Through Education and Empowerment
Through informational social media content, school-based campaigns, and collaborative events, Empty Streets educates students and adults alike on how to recognize red flags, understand the root causes of trafficking, and help prevent it before it starts.
The organization also partners with other youth-led nonprofits and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), allowing them to share resources, strategies, and amplify the impact of their collective work.
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While awareness is vital, Lee emphasizes that tangible support for survivors is equally critical—especially in Houston, where resources are limited.
“Despite Houston holding the unfortunate #1 ranking for human trafficking, there is only one functional shelter available for survivors,” Lee noted. “That’s why what we do—donating essential goods and showing up for these individuals—is so important.”
Looking Ahead: A Generation Leading the Charge
Lee’s journey with Empty Streets is a testament to what one student can do with conviction, support, and vision. By centering her efforts on compassion, community action, and survivor dignity, she’s not just raising awareness—she’s reshaping the narrative of youth activism in Houston and beyond.
As the fight against human trafficking in Houston continues, Lee and her peers offer a hopeful reminder that change often begins with those who are willing to speak out—and act.
To learn more or support Empty Streets’ mission, visit emptystreets.sparkplug.page.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
