 |
In celebrating its 10th anniversary, Restore Innocence announced its new name: Reclaiming Hope.
The new name captures what women, men, girls and boys who have been impacted by the human trafficking industry say are their unique needs.
“Rather than seeking to ‘restore innocence’ or get back to the person they were before their trauma, Survivors desire hopeful ways to move forward,” said Sues Hess, Executive Director of Reclaiming Hope. “They’ve told us what they need: a friend to walk through life with, someone to lean through pregnancy, addiction, and other realities. In addition to relationship, we offer them trauma-informed therapy, housing assistance, and support with life changes.”
As of Sunday evening Reclaiming Hope has raised over $50,000 to provide two master leases on apartments for Survivors of sex trafficking.
At its 10th anniversary celebration on Sept. 12, the nonprofit’s leadership and board, volunteers and concerned community members, heard from Annika Huff, a Survivor of sex trafficking who is a national spokesperson on trafficking. Her Reclaiming Hope mentor was a critical part of her recovery and reintegration. Mentors become a reliable friend whom Survivors can trust, and help them through the judicial or victim advocacy process, emotional and practical support.
Huff explained how important her Mentor has been to her in her journey after exiting the trafficking industry. “What I needed was someone who cared….I found Restore Innocence in 2014. At that time, there was no transitional housing for me. My mentor helped house me for a month when I needed an extended stay. She promised me I would never be homeless again.” Her mentor has accompanied through the ups and downs of life for over 7 years. “I really believe in the pebble in the pond, ripple effect. Reclaiming Hope has made a ripple on me, and I want you to know the impact you’re making is amazing.”
Celebration participants also heard from a partner who has fostered Reclaiming Hope’s relationships with law enforcement agencies. Reclaiming Hope provides Hope Bags to FBI, police departments, Homeland Security and State Patrol. The bags provide essential and personal care items for victims of trafficking, domestic violence, and sexual violence at the point of rescue. To date, Reclaiming Hope has donated more than 4,000 bags to law enforcement in 47 states, along with Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.
Reclaiming Hope’s rebrand includes a new logo: stylized wings. “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Reclaiming Hope cares for survivors of sex trafficking at the point of recovery, during restoration and reintegration by addressing their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
###
To learn more about Reclaiming Hope or how to fill a restoration bag, please visit the Reclaiming Hope website: http://www.