Simple events that many people take for granted in their daily life can be symbolic accomplishments for survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Since so many of the survivors we serve come from homelessness, addiction and mental illness backgrounds, and were exploited when they were very young, their adversities were often in the way of living a normal life. Now, at Grace House, we often celebrate every milestone they meet because it keeps them focused on their ultimate goal of independence and autonomy.
Each Grace House Resident is expected to meet certain milestones at prespecified times. Within the first 30 day upon entering Grace House, Residents must work with our staff on obtaining documents, including their Birth Certificate or ID card, so that they can later participate in programming that may require forms of identification, including individual therapy and outpatient addiction programming. Obtaining identification is a milestone within itself, and of course, paves the way for other milestones to be reached.
By the time survivors reach 90 days within the Grace House Residential Program, they have the opportunity to earn a bus pass and travel phone so that they can travel independently to and from necessary appointments. This milestone symbolizes their step towards independence, by allowing them to safely travel by themselves. This phase also involves planning for their future, as they are expected to begin signing up for school, start looking for work, or begin planning for their desired career.
Next week, we will share with you all the milestones that Grace House Residents meet when they reach six months into their program, one year, and other markers along their journey. To support the ongoing journeys of our survivor sisters, please visit our website.
Alabaster Jar Project 