Every December, an Atlas Free Network Member in Bangkok hosts a Christmas party for women trapped in sexual exploitation. Staff and volunteers host a night with good food, conversation, decorations, and music, so that these women who are in exploitation can have at least one night a year where they are treated with dignity.
Pensri*, a woman in exploitation, attended her first party in 2023.
At the Christmas party, Pensri remembers hearing the meaning of Christmas explained for the first time. As she listened to the story, something impacted her heart, and she started to hope. Looking around the room, she could believe that there were people who accepted her, places where she could feel safe, and even the possibility of one day leaving sex trafficking behind.
Slowly, the future Pensri envisioned for herself began to take on a new shape.
The following December at the next Christmas party, the staff recognized Pensri when she came through the door. Upon greeting them, Pensri told them about her year. She explained that after last year’s party, she had started to see God’s blessings in her life and was impacted by new friends who helped her find a pathway out of the cycle of exploitation she was trapped in. The night of the Christmas party had been her last night in trafficking, and she had come to the party to celebrate. Today, Pensri is free and working as a cashier at a department store.
This Christmas, you can be a part of bringing hope to women like Pensri. Start today by giving a one-time gift or becoming a monthly donor.
*Name changed to protect the identity of the survivor.
