“My daughter is available, short-term,” Erica’s mom said to some tourists passing by in the street. “Erica”, only eight years old at the time, stood timidly next to her. When she saw their heads nod yes, she dreaded what would come next. Erica’s mom exploited her over the next few years in Central America. She would sell her to truckers, American and European tourists, or anyone passing through town. When Erica was 10 years old, she was rescued and placed in our partnering aftercare home. Her 11th birthday was coming up, but Erica had never had a birthday party before. When everyone came out with presents and started singing happy birthday, Erica was overcome with joy. She put her face in her hands and soaked in the moment. She had never been treated this way before or heard the Happy Birthday song. Kids should not spend their childhood being exploited and abused. With your donations and support, we help survivors like Erica experience the joy of feeling loved and cared for. Once O.U.R. Aftercare makes a connection with an aftercare home, we see all of survivors as family and support them in their journeys. O.U.R. recently provided a van for Erica's aftercare home to transport the girls back and forth from appointments and activities so they can stay together. During quarantine, our team also provided safe, at-home workouts. Today, the O.U.R. Aftercare Team continues to follow up with Erica and the other survivors as they work to heal and reach their dreams.
“My daughter is available, short-term,” Erica’s mom said to some tourists passing by in the street. “Erica”, only eight ... was originally published here https://www.instagram.com/p/CEDM01UpYuf
No comments:
Post a Comment