Online sexual exploitation of children was a problem long before the pandemic, but it grew exponentially during the lockdown era when online use skyrocketed. Rescue can't come soon enough for the little ones trapped by this horrifying crime. And you can help send that rescue today.
Cassie* was 12 when a family friend lured her to Manila. “He told me that he can help me to reach all of my dreams," she remembers, and at first she enjoyed the big city and nice clothes. Then the abuse began.
“I was thinking, ‘I want to die. I want to die because of this pain, but I can’t,’” Cassie says. “He hurt me every day. It felt very lonely for me because I was very far from my family and I couldn't tell them what happened to me because I was very scared.”
Because online sexual exploitation takes place behind closed doors, the abuse is often hidden. But when you support IJM's rescue efforts, John, you show that you’re determined to help find them and pursue justice for their suffering.
After IJM heard about the abuse, the generosity of people like you meant we could coordinate with local authorities to set Cassie and five other children free.
After nearly five years of abuse, IJM and partners placed Cassie in a safe, professional aftercare home. “When they rescued us, it made me heal all the pain,” Cassie explains. “In [the aftercare home] I realize everything, that you don't have to lose hope. If I see or if I hear there is a victim of human trafficking like us, I just want to comfort her, help her to move forward and just fight for your rights, because that's where I stand now.”
When you support IJM, you help get children like Cassie out of abusive situations. And, in turn, they go on to help others. Today, Cassie is in her 4th year of college studying hospitality management. Having already been an advocate with IJM, she is interested in continuing her advocacy work despite her busy schedule. You help send rescue to children suffering from everyday violence and move us closer, day by day, to our mission of protecting half a billion people by 2030.
Please make 2023 a year of freedom by making a gift today!
Until all are free,
Melissa Russell Regional President, IJM North America
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