Breaking Barriers to Rescue
Every single case that opens from our Hotline carries with it a unique set of obstacles. There have been many individuals that have captured my heart, and an endless list of names that need prayer. One case that stands out was recent.
A solely-Spanish speaking survivor of sex trafficking called the hotline. The language barrier made it impossible to even complete an intake form. At first, we were unsure whether she was a survivor of trafficking or was in need of services unrelated. The male that tried to translate for her on the phone was clearly taken aback by the word “prostitute” when she was explaining the situation. Once he was off the phone, I was left with a confusing story that had many gaps and unclear next steps.
Thankfully, we have built connections with a translation service that made communication possible. A simple call allows us access to any language we need.
The kind, thoughtful individuals that answered on the other line patiently, and in my opinion effortlessly, communicated with this survivor what we do, what we need to know, and how we could help her. Once it was clarified that she is a survivor of sex trafficking and was temporarily safe, our search began for a Spanish-speaking program to partner with her.
The Lord opened a door with a local sex-trafficking specific program that spoke Spanish and had availability for her. They helped communicate with her and even helped get her to their program.
Without that translation service, we may not have ever been able to serve this survivor. However, with it, she was connected to a program that will provide safe living and therapeutic resources to help her heal. The partnerships and resources we have and continue to develop are truly exceptional and make rescue possible.