One year ago, Courage House Dar es Salaam opened its doors to welcome young girls needing a safe place to heal from their trauma of being trafficked for sex. When we hear their stories, we’re reminded of why we do what we do.
Just yesterday, we welcomed an 11-year-old—her grandmother sent her to the streets to beg for food and soon, predators took advantage of her and sold her for sex many hours away from where she was raised. When our team met her, she begged relentless to go to school. “Rita” doesn’t read or write, but her dream is to be a social worker.
Another girl who is living safely at Courage House Dar was sold by her mother at 16 years old. At 7 months pregnant, her mother was attempting to abort the baby when neighbors intervened and called the authorities; she is now safe at Courage House with her 3-month-old baby. One survivor is testifying against her perpetrator with the support of our team.
The girls at Courage House Dar are getting an education, counseling, and medical care and are learning how to be good mamas to their babies. We are so very grateful to everyone who has given to make Courage House Dar a reality! The transformation and growth of our girls physically, emotionally, and spiritually in such a short time is nothing short of miraculous. Now we see joy and laughter—they can dream, play, and have hope for their future.
Joel & Stephanie Midthun
East Africa Regional Directors
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