Yesterday on a flight on my way to Seattle, cleaning out my email inbox, I found an email that brought me to tears. It reminded me of the lives that REST changes every day.
So, I am sharing the story of Ari below to inspire you to join me tomorrow night for the 10th annual A Night of REST in Seattle to Celebrate those who have escaped trafficking and raise funds for those hoping and working on leaving the cycle.
Plus, for the first time, the NEW: The Stronger Together Award recognizes an individual/organization making outstanding contributions to ending sexual violence will be awarded.
If you cannot attend, you can donate at the REST website, or there are many ways to donate besides sending money, like shopping through their amazon link.
To learn more, check out the REST website on how you can help. Thanks for your consideration. REST | Real Escape from the Sex Trade
Trigger Warning: human trafficking, sexual assault, domestic violence, physical violence, rape, child abuse, and harassment. I acknowledge that this content may be challenging to read.
Born to a young mom living in a domestic violence situation, Ari doesn't remember a time when she wasn't being raped, beaten, and sold for sex. In a domestic violence situation, Ari doesn't remember a time when she wasn't being raped, beaten, and sold for sex.
Ari was ten when she ran away for the first time. She was found and returned home by well-intentioned people. Afraid that Ari would try to run away again, her mom sedated her with drugs. This went on for years. Afraid that Ari would try to run away again, her mom sedated her with drugs. This went on for years.
Eventually, Ari found someone who helped her escape her life at home. It meant selling drugs and sex, but at least it was to men who were substantially less violent than the ones she had been living with.
She rarely slept. She was exhausted. She wanted out. After moving from shelter to shelter, Ari was finally referred to REST. With a safe place to breathe, rest, and resources to help with her recovery, she was finally able to dream about her future and start down the pathway to freedom, safety, and hope!