Rahab's Hideaway

Today I attended a fundraiser for a new ministry in our community. Rahab's Hideaway has begun work to offer hope and help to women victimized by human trafficking. The Women Ministry organization of our church has designated 'human trafficking' as a primary issue to address, so I have learned a bit about the travesty of trafficking.
During the presenters talks I was reminded of my days as a nurse in a Victims of Torture program. (I worked with refugees) Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is common in girls and women who have been forced into this modern day 'slavery', just as those who have endured torture. How can it be that evil is so alive and well? How is it that we allow it to continue? Every day, every culture, every country... Yes right here in the 'heart of Ohio'.
So, what does human trafficking have to do with Chloe's Place? Here's a hunch I have. ... Be assured that many young women who find themselves pregnant/parenting, alone, poor and hopeless are incredibly vulnerable. Who do traffickers (pimps) look to victimize? The most vulnerable, of course! Think with me about a young woman who has a child and is alone. No one to babysit, no job skills, no high school diploma, no hope. Food, clothing... the basic stuff of life is not easily accessible. How likely is it that she will be targeted? In her desperation to survive I can imagine that she might fall for the lies of some slick talker, promising her the moon, only to find herself trapped in a life she would never have chosen for herself or her child. I couldn't find any statistic on-line that support my hunch....but it makes sense to me.
I am so thankful to be in a position to invest my time and resources in making a different path for young women and their children. When we are able to offer safe haven, GED classes, and parenting classes all in an environment permeated with grace and love.... that will be a gift of unspeakable value. What a privilege to make such an investment. I hope you have been thinking about how you might want to be involved. We need you!