The Road to Independence
For survivors of human trafficking, rebuilding their lives is a journey that is often fraught with challenges. Each step toward independence is a triumph, and few milestones are as transformative as obtaining a driver’s license and purchasing a car. Though seemingly ordinary to many, these tools for securing freedom and mobility can be extraordinary for survivors of human trafficking, opening doors for independence and empowerment.
Many women who have experienced trafficking were first exploited as children, and their teen years were often fraught with exploitation. So, some of the women who come to Engedi Refuge have not obtained a driver’s license and have never owned a car.
Part of Phase Two of our program encourages survivors to create a personal development plan. This can include education goals, career goal setting, and obtaining independent housing. But often, these goals can be supported by obtaining a driver’s license and purchasing a car. Engedi’s staff helps support survivors in achieving these goals by accompanying women during practice drives to support their driver’s education classes and teaching survivors how to drive. This enables them to obtain their driver’s license.
Engedi Refuge helps women develop financial literacy, enabling them to learn how to use credit, budget effectively, and save money if their goal is to purchase a car. Securing part-time employment while in Phase Two of Engedi’s program is a crucial step for also reaching an individual's goal of car ownership.
The Power of Mobility
For someone who has endured the profound trauma of human trafficking, regaining control over their life is critical. At its core, a driver’s license and car ownership symbolize self-sufficiency. This provides survivors with the ability to travel freely, whether to work, school, medical appointments, church, or community support groups. This autonomy is not just about physical movement—it is about reclaiming power over their choices and destinations.
Access to Employment
One of the biggest hurdles survivors face is securing stable employment. Many jobs require dependable transportation, and public transit is often unavailable, particularly in rural areas. A car allows a survivor to access job opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach, including positions beyond walking distance or those with irregular hours. By expanding their options, survivors can pursue careers that align with their talents and aspirations, rather than settling for what is merely the closest to a bus line.
Educational Opportunities
Education is a fundamental pillar of rebuilding a new life, offering survivors the opportunity to acquire new skills, earn diplomas or degrees, and build confidence. Whether it’s attending classes, workshops, or vocational training—having a car enables survivors to access educational institutions without being limited by geography or transit schedules. Access to learning environments fosters a sense of progress and hope, preparing survivors for a brighter future.
Healthcare and Support Services
Maintaining physical and mental health is an essential part of recovery after human trafficking. Survivors require ongoing counseling, medical treatments, and addiction recovery meetings in order to heal from their traumatic experiences and maintain their sobriety. A lack of transportation can make attending regular appointments and meetings a daunting task, potentially halting their journey to wellness. Owning a reliable vehicle ensures that survivors can prioritize their health and maintain consistency in their recovery care.
Breaking Isolation
Human trafficking often leaves survivors socially isolated and stripped of connections with a caring community. A car can become a bridge to rebuilding their social lives. It allows them to visit friends, attend support groups, and participate in church and community events, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of loneliness. Mobility enables survivors to re-engage with the world, helping them rediscover joy and companionship.
Safety and Security
Safety is a paramount concern for human trafficking survivors, many of whom grapple with lingering fears tied to their past experiences. Public transportation, while useful, may not always feel safe or reliable, particularly for individuals dealing with trauma. Having their own vehicle allows survivors to control their environment, choose routes, and avoid situations that make them feel vulnerable.
Overcoming Barriers
Despite its importance, the path to obtaining a driver’s license and a car is often filled with obstacles for survivors. Financial barriers are among the most significant, as many survivors face economic hardship. Driving lessons, licensing fees, insurance costs, and the price of a car can be overwhelming. Additionally, survivors may lack documentation needed for a license, such as a birth certificate, due to their trafficking experience, so obtaining all of the required paperwork can be a challenging task.
How Communities Can Help
Empowering survivors to achieve mobility requires a collective effort. Besides donating to support Engedi’s work, businesses that can offer subsidized driving lessons or affordable cars are invaluable. Pro-bono legal assistance can also provide guidance on navigating obstacles to obtaining a license and offering support tailored to the unique needs of survivors.
A Symbol of Freedom
For survivors of human trafficking, getting a driver’s license and a car are not just practical tools. They are symbols of freedom, strength, and resilience. It marks a departure from the confined spaces of exploitation and an entry into a world full of possibilities. Every new mile driven is a testament to their courage and determination to reclaim their lives.