2019
International Sanctuary (I. Sanctuary) empowers girls and women who have escaped human trafficking. The desire is for the girls and women to become confident enough to embrace their true identity and self worth. International Sanctuary accomplishes this using their trauma-informed program at the same time providing employment in a healthy enviornment for the survivors. Job training leads to personal growth as well as income. Through International Sanctuary's social enterprise, PURPOSE Jewelry, the girls are employed and taught to design marketable jewelry. The effect, survivors are able to grow in confidence and independence, achieving International Sanctuary's model of becoming "Stronger, Wiser Women." Over time, these survivors learn to form trusting, long-term relationships through the International Sanctuary community.
International Sanctuary's Model
INCOME
When survivors enter the work environment they are treated with dignity and respect. They receive regular paychecks, open a bank account, and are taught to save for the future.
HEALTHCARE
International Sanctuary provides access to ongoing healthcare for girls and women, as well as mental health care, counseling, life training skills, and one-on-one mentoring.
EDUCATION
Girls and women, regardless of age or ability, are provided access to education. Subjects include reading, math, computer skills, language, life skills, and personal finance.
COMMUNITY
Each Sanctuary, standing in partnership with like-minded organizations, provides a trauma-informed community where participants begin to foster healthy relationships, build trust and safely grow.
By purchasing PURPOSE Jewelry,
you are providing freedom, dignity, and hope for these amazing artisans.
The art of jewelry making paired with holistic care ensures every artisan receives freedom and hope for the future. Holistic care is provided through International Sanctuary and includes education, health care, and counseling. The program provides every artisan with life skills and opportunities to succeed.
From creation to shipping, young women escaping human trafficking are playing a critical role in every step of the process. They are able to earn a fair wage and gain employable skills. YOU are making all of this possible, and changing lives.
Growing Epidemic
Human Sex Trafficking
International Sanctuary in Orange County, California
Orange County stands out as a rapidly growing spotlight for human sex traffickers. Orange County's affluence commands more than double the rates for sex acts. Eighty percent, of the sex traffickers, come from outside of Orange County. One girl makes a pimp from $500-$2500 per day. Most girls used in sex trafficking began as minors. Sex trafficking is a local epidemic that many want to believe isn't happening in the shadows of the happiest place on earth, Disneyland. Due to the growing problem within Orange County, the district of Orange County has established a Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) as well as the Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT).
In response, International Sanctuary has created a center specifically for victims seeking stability and work. This Orange County Sanctuary meets the needs of survivors who achieved a level of security and are ready for independent living. The trauma-informed program employs girls and women as they learn and grow in a healthy environment. Job training leads to an income through International Sanctuary's social enterprise, PURPOSE Jewelry. Young women receive physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual care. Girls and women can grow in confidence and independence, achieving the International Sanctuary's model of becoming "Stronger, Wiser Women." Over time, these survivors learn to form trusting, long-term relationships through the International Sanctuary community.
International Sanctuary in Tijuana
International Sanctuary has built a strong foundation for the Tijuana Sanctuary. This groundwork includes developing strong partnerships with local organizations, onboarding staff, and teaching jewelry skills to participants. Sanctuary's Tijuana Director moves in faith even when faced with the threat of the cartel. Today preventative efforts are taking place in local orphanages, as orphans are highly vulnerable to grooming for human trafficking.