Changed Lives
Sometimes they are sold by their parents because bonded slavery seems like the only way to insure their survival. Other times they are coerced into thinking they will find a better life and a good job. For an increasing number of enslaved women and girls, shelter and healing have fortunately been found through Project Rescue. Hear their voices and consider what you can do to make a difference.
Kumari
I was 16 yrs old when I was sold by my uncle. I was there for two years. With the help of my friend I came to know Bombay Teen Challenge. I became involved and stayed there for six months. I came to Home of Hope Nepal in 2000. After being at the Home of Hope, I was able to go through different programs like literacy school, vocational training and beautician training. After going through these courses the people at the Home of Hope encouraged us to start up income generating program that would allow us to survive independently. I wanted to set up my own beauty parlor. With the help of the Home of Hope leader, I am walking closely with God and also running my own beauty parlor to support myself.
Kamala
I was taken to India by my neighbor when I was 18 years old. I was there for five years. During that time I got married. After married life of two years my husband died of HIV/AIDS. Through the ministry of Teen Challenge, I came to Home of Hope Kathmandu in 2000 along with my daughter. Through this ministry, I started growing strongly in God. I went to Literacy classes that taught me how to read my Bible and learn to write. After finishing my literacy course, I began to study sewing basics, which went really well. Now, I go to the vocational training center everyday with other girls from the Home of Hope where we have started making different products like bags, prayer journals and pashmina shawls. I make some income to support myself and I live in the apartment with my friend. I thank the Lord for changing my life.
Anita
When I was 12 years old a couple that I trusted promised me a job. They convinced me of a dream opportunity to work as a domestic helper along with the chance to pursue my studies. The idea of a secure job thrilled me, as it would any young girl in Nepal. Believing that I could trust this couple, I left my home in pursuit of a future.
After drugging me, the couple took me to a movie theater where a brothel owner met us. Two hundred dollars was the price that sold me into forced prostitution. For the next 18 years I lived and worked in the red light district of Bombay.
It was here in the red light district that I first heard the Gospel from those involved with Bombay Teen Challenge. My brothel owner and I had a life changing experience by accepting Jesus into our lives. After this I soon decided to return to my home in Nepal.
Ten ladies, including myself, now live at the Kathmandu Home of Hope. God is continuing to work beautifully in each of our lives. I am currently attending literacy classes and sewing classes and hope to one day have a tailoring shop of my own.