Lisa shares her story with you — and asks for your help.
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John,
My first trafficker was my mom.
Things seemed normal on the outside. I came from an upper-middle-class family. I went to school and church. I took ballet classes. I went to doctors’ visits and met with my school counselor.
But the adults in my life missed what was happening in secret: My mother had started trafficking me for sex at age six.
Because it started so young in my life, I thought it was normal. My mom told me, “If you love me, you’ll do this.” I was groomed to think this was love.
Trafficking is often highly personal, like it was for me.
I’m sharing my story to make a difference for other kids. I want you to know: YOU can make a difference, too.
Will you give today to help prevent human trafficking?
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For a short time, your gift will be matched x4.
YES, I WANT TO HELP
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My story doesn’t end with my mother. When I was 18 and my boyfriend promised to rescue me … he became my next trafficker.
My traffickers used love to manipulate me for their own gain.
I never knew that love, or family, could be anything other than what I had experienced.
It took a long time to undo that. My trafficking ended 11 years ago, but it has felt like a lifetime.
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Here’s what I want you to know:
My story is not rare. Trusted caregivers can become harm-doers. Love is often used as a weapon by traffickers.
In fact: 42% of trafficking victims reported to National Human Trafficking Hotline were exploited by their family.
Your care today can help.
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Your gift can shine a light on this less-known form of trafficking — so that children in my shoes don’t get overlooked.
You can help fund initiatives like Love & Trafficking
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. With awareness of how trafficking really happens, helpers and safety nets will protect more kids.
I'M READY TO GIVE
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Today I’m married, and I’m loved in a way I never thought possible. I have bigger dreams for myself and my family. I mentor and teach an art class for survivors.
I know how long the road can be to healing and hope. And I know caring people, like YOU, want to prevent trafficking from happening to vulnerable people.
I invite you to be an ally with your gift
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. Together, we can end trafficking.
Thank you,
Lisa*
Trafficking Survivor
Anti-Trafficking Advocate & Friend of Polaris
P.S. I’m sharing my story to ask you: Will you protect children from what happened to me? My painting shared in this email is my self-portrait. It was my attempt to share my own vulnerability and sheer pain. As the years have passed, now I can look at this image with gentleness and know that I eventually healed enough to not feel so exposed and ashamed. I hope it challenges you to invest in healing for another survivor. Please give now for the x4 match.
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*Name has been changed to protect the identity of the survivor.
Freedom happens now.
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Make a Gift Today
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