Lesotho is no stranger to health crises. One of the main reasons this area remains in poverty is because of the aftermath of the HIV epidemic.
When the COVID-19 pandemic spread worldwide in 2020, impoverished communities in Lesotho were left more hopeless than ever. Families lost their only source of income, or they lost the primary providers for their households. This time of desperation became a breeding ground for human traffickers.
Palesa’s teen trafficking survival story
Palesa is a teen girl in Lesotho whose mother lost her job during COVID. Palesa had to drop out of high school to help support the household, and she struggled to find consistent work during the pandemic.
In March of this year, Palesa learned about a fantastic work opportunity that could solve all of her financial struggles. She eagerly arrived at the job site, only to find no work at all. The job was a lie, and Palesa was now in the midst of being trafficked.
Thankfully, Palesa caught on early and managed to escape her ordeal. She arrived at the Beautiful Dream Society shelter for victims of human trafficking, and she started the long process of healing after trauma.
During her time at the crisis care shelter, Palesa has developed crucial job skills to foster her future success. She joyfully participates in the education and enrichment classes we offer and has deepened her Christian faith. Palesa participates in daily shelter devotions, Sunday church, and weekly Bible Studies.
Looking forward to a bright future
Palesa recently received the news that her trafficker was captured, detained, and denied bail. BDS will assist her through the trial phase. After that, Palesa is looking forward to reuniting with her family, returning to high school, and continuing with her life.
Teen trafficking is a side effect no one could have predicted during the pandemic. Palesa is one of many young women affected by financial desperation. Beautiful Dream Society is dedicated to helping those in need, and we cannot do it without your support.
Donate today if you’d like to help recovering human trafficking victims and underserved communities. Thank you for your compassion. It saves lives!