“The Christmas after escaping trafficking was challenging. My mom & I had just moved into an apartment, but couldn’t afford the bills to keep the lights on or gifts under the tree. The trauma left us unable to focus on creating that holiday atmosphere in our home because we didn’t have the means or support to do so. As I continued to get older & heal, I started to realize what the holidays meant to me. I began finding a healthy community I could celebrate, keep traditions with, play games at the table after a large holiday feast, laughter billowing throughout the halls, & the houses decked out in Christmas lights. All of that had been new to me because I was so used to not having an actual Christmas. I began to appreciate not being afraid during the holidays anymore & creating memories that would last the rest of my life in a positive way. Being present together is what it's all about. When I see houses with the lights on, it reminds me of being home for the holidays.”
-Survivor