When Home Becomes the First Step to Healing
Exploring the Power and Possibility of Family Reunification
At Rescue America, we cultivate the redemptive journey—the unique path a survivor of sexual exploitation might take toward freedom and healing. That journey is most often placement in arestorative care safe home. And while that remains a vital and life-changing step for many, we’re seeing something new emerge in this season: the quiet, powerful work of family reunification.
It’s notthe expected route. In fact,we’re often cautious about reuniting survivors with family members. Why? Because family reunification carries risks. Not all homes are safe. Not all families are equipped to support someone coming out of trauma. And sadly, many survivors were trafficked by relatives—making a return home not just complicated, but dangerous.
But lately, something has shifted.
We’re seeing an increase in survivors who reach out to us and identify family as their first safe place. And we’re seeing families step up—prepared, supportive, and ready to welcome them home.
These aren’t always the final destinations. For some, reuniting with family is a first step, a space to rest, regroup, and begin thinking clearly about what’s next. Some call us back, ready to pursue long-term placement. Others find what they need within the safety of their family and begin to flourish.
One recent story stands out: a young woman whose aunt answered the phone and had already scheduled appointments with local resources. She didn’t just say “yes”—she had a plan. She knew what her niece needed. She was ready to walk alongside her through the healing process.
When we hear stories like that, we call it “sweet.” Not because the journey is easy, but because it’s laced with grace.
There’s a beautiful tension here—between the reality of broken family systems and the redemption God is working within them. Yes, some families have caused deep harm. But others are playing a crucial role in restoration. It’s a glimpse of the gospel in motion—where pain once lived, hope rises.
And the truth is: when we allow the Holy Spirit to lead, we discover that the journey to freedom may not look like we expected. Sometimes it’s a long-term placement. Sometimes it’s a quiet reunion at a kitchen table. Sometimes it’s multiple steps, with many stops along the way.
But always, it’s a path God is writing.
As one staff member shared:
“If we’re truly going to believe in redemptive solutions for every survivor, then we have to be open to outside-the-box steps. Sometimes, the best first step is family.”
In this season, we are choosing to lean into discernment. We’re listening closely—not just to survivors, but to the Holy Spirit. And we’re seeing something sacred in the process.
Because for some survivors, going home isn’t going backward.
It’s going toward healing.
If you or someone you know have been sexually exploited and want out of the life, please call Rescue America’s 24/7 Rescue hotline number at 833.599.FREE.
To report a trafficking tip, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888.373.7888.
Save these numbers on your phone for later reference!
