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Understanding the Journey: Trauma-Informed Healing for Survivors of Human Trafficking

January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on the realities of human trafficking and the strength of survivors working to rebuild their lives. Healing from trafficking isn’t just about escaping a harmful situation—it’s about addressing the deep emotional and psychological wounds left behind. Let’s explore the human experience of trafficking, the hurdles survivors face, and how trauma-informed care can pave the path to healing.

The Emotional and Psychological Weight of Trafficking

The trauma of trafficking doesn’t end when a survivor escapes. Instead, it begins a long, often grueling healing process. Survivors carry invisible scars—PTSD, anxiety, depression, and complex trauma—that can shape every aspect of their lives. These psychological wounds manifest in ways that may not be immediately visible, like hypervigilance (constantly feeling unsafe) or dissociation (disconnecting from reality to cope). 

One survivor shared:

There is an assumption with trafficking survivors that physical safety equates to psychological and emotional safety, but this is not true.

dressember.org/blog/hannahs-story

 

Survivors often grapple with guilt, shame, and unworthiness, which can complicate relationships and hinder independence. Imagine trying to rebuild your life while carrying the weight of such profound emotional pain. Some survivors recount the moments that led them into trafficking: “My dad told me to go make his money (age 13).” “My sister taught me.” “My addiction to alcohol led to my prostitution.” Each story reveals layers of vulnerability and heartbreak.

The Barriers Survivors Face

Healing is a massive undertaking, made even more complex by systemic challenges and societal stigma. Survivors often face judgment, with some mistakenly believing trafficking is a choice rather than a result of manipulation and coercion. Before being trafficked, many survivors faced immense challenges:

Even after leaving the lifestyle, barriers continued:

After being trafficked survivors continue to face complex barriers like ongoing mental health needs and access to treatment, criminal records and financial abuse.

polarisproject.org/national-survivor-study

 

The systemic challenges survivors face can amplify feelings of isolation and hopelessness. How do you build a life when every step forward is met with another barrier? Without support, even basic tasks—like opening a bank account or applying for housing—can feel impossible.

 

The Path to Healing: Trauma-Informed Care

For survivors, trauma-informed care is essential. Unlike traditional approaches, trauma-informed care recognizes the lasting effects of trauma and creates environments where survivors feel safe, empowered, and respected.

Key principles of trauma-informed care include:

Key principals of trauma informed care include safety, choice, collaboration and empowerment.

pacificmedicaltraining.com/impact-of-human-trafficking-on-mental-health

 

Take, for example, programs that provide stable housing. These programs don’t just meet immediate needs—they offer a foundation for long-term healing. Therapy options like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or somatic therapies are also invaluable, helping survivors process trauma and reconnect with their bodies.

At Freedom a la Cart, trauma-informed care is at the heart of what we do. From workforce development to in-house counseling and housing assistance, we create spaces where survivors can heal, grow, and reclaim their independence. One step at a time, we’re helping survivors build lives that are truly their own.

How You Can Help

Healing from trafficking is a community effort. By understanding the human experience behind the statistics, we can all play a role in supporting survivors. Here’s how you can help:

Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a survivor’s journey. Together, we can create a world where survivors don’t just survive—they thrive.

A Call to Hope

The healing journey is anything but easy, but survivors are some of the strongest people you’ll ever meet. Healing takes time, patience, and an abundance of support. By breaking down systemic barriers and embracing trauma-informed care, we can help survivors build futures filled with hope and possibility.

Let’s walk alongside them, offering compassion and encouragement every step of the way because no one should have to heal alone.

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Redefining Business: The Transformative Power of Social Enterprise

Today is Social Enterprise Day—Let’s Celebrate Business with Purpose!

What if businesses weren’t just about profits but also about making the world a better place? That’s exactly what social enterprises do! Social Enterprise Day, part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, shines a spotlight on these purpose-driven organizations that prove you can succeed while creating real, lasting change. But what makes a business a social enterprise, and why does it matter now more than ever? Let’s dive in and celebrate the power of blending profit with purpose!

What Is a Social Enterprise?

Social enterprises operate at the sweet spot between business and purpose. They use their business models to solve social problems, whether that’s reducing poverty, empowering marginalized communities, or protecting the environment.

Contrary to popular belief, not all social enterprises are nonprofits. Take Freedom a la Cart, for example—it’s a nonprofit that generates revenue through business operations to help fund its programs, while also relying on donations and grants to provide essential support services. On the flip side, some social enterprises operate as for-profit companies, dedicating a share of their profits to drive positive social change.

Then there’s the Employment Social Enterprise (ESE) model. ESEs like Freedom a la Cart, focus on creating meaningful employment opportunities for people who face barriers to traditional jobs. According to REDF, an ESE “blends a revenue-generating business with a job training program,” offering not just work but wraparound services like counseling, housing support, and life skills training. It’s about addressing the whole person and empowering long-term success.

Why Social Enterprises Matter

Social enterprises show us what’s possible when business meets purpose. A few global stats help paint the picture. Based on a report by the World Economic Forum’s Global Alliance for Social Entrepreneurship,

  • 10 million social enterprises are driving solutions to poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability.
  • 50% of social enterprises are led by women, ensuring diverse voices shape impactful solutions.
  • 200 million jobs are created worldwide by social enterprises, providing stability for families and communities.

Research shows that when employees feel respected and supported, they’re more likely to maintain stable jobs, achieve financial independence, and build thriving futures.

Freedom a la Cart: A Social Enterprise in Action

At Freedom a la Cart, we’re more than made-from-scratch cuisine. We’re creating opportunities for survivors of human trafficking to build lives of freedom and self-sufficiency.

Here’s how we do it:

  • Paid employment to provide financial stability,
  • Job training to build skills for the future,
  • Supportive services like housing, counseling, and
  • A caring work environment where employees feel valued and respected.

We believe in empowering the whole person—not just providing a paycheck but helping survivors overcome barriers and step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

How You Can Join the Movement

Every time you visit our café, order catering, or share our mission, you’re supporting survivors on their journey to freedom. Here’s how you can get involved:

Supporting social enterprises is an easy way to create lasting change. This Social Enterprise Day, join us in celebrating businesses that show purpose and profit can work together. At Freedom a la Cart, we’re proud to be part of this movement. Together, we can create opportunities, transform lives, and show the world what real impact looks like.

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Building a Compassionate + Equitable Future

Freedom a la Cart participated in hosting a meaningful conversation during a community-wide day called The Big Table, organized by The Columbus Foundation. These conversations focused on envisioning the next steps toward a compassionate and equitable future for Central Ohio. Conversations took place throughout the day across the region, each focusing on different topics, but all connected to the future of our community. 

At Freedom’s Big Table conversation, the room was buzzing with passionate people – each one focused on one big goal: figuring out how we, as individuals and organizations, can start breaking down the barriers that women face.

Mental Health: One of the Biggest Hurdles

The conversation began with a crucial topic—mental health. At Freedom, mental health is always front and center. Every day, we see how it impacts the women we serve, our team members, and the community at large. However, addressing mental health in the workplace can often be tricky.

The question “How do we support people struggling with mental health while holding them accountable for their growth at work?” was posed. Our initial reaction may be to instantly cater to them by lessening their workload. Still, we have to ask ourselves: Is that always the best approach? This discussion led to a collective takeaway: creating a supportive, open environment is crucial. People need to feel safe sharing what they’re going through without the assumption that they can’t handle their responsibilities. Individuals can thrive with the right balance of support, accountability, and understanding.

This balance applies internally and externally—whether working with staff or survivors. When working in high-pressure, trauma-informed environments, or really any environment, we can’t serve others well if we’re not taking care of ourselves. This is why fostering “villages”—supportive communities around us where we can share our experiences and support each other—is essential. These spaces allow people to help and uplift one another, ensuring no one is left to bear the burden alone.

Fear and Curiosity: What We Can Learn From Our Kids

The conversation then shifted to the broader issue of understanding mental health in the workplace. How do you support someone if you don’t fully understand their struggles? Mental health affects everyone differently, and it often runs on a spectrum. Some may be vulnerable and willing to share compared to others. Men are more likely to suppress their feelings, making it harder to support them and others.

This lack of understanding of what someone is going through or the steps that need to be taken can create fear. We discussed how, over time, adults lose the curiosity children naturally have. Kids are fearless in asking questions, no matter how difficult or random. But as we age, we hold back, afraid of not knowing enough or saying the wrong thing. This fear limits our ability to support one another in meaningful ways.

It’s time we started embracing curiosity again—not only to help women and others in our communities but also to develop as people. We can meet people where they are, ask what they need, and create environments where they feel safe asking questions and sharing their experiences. By doing so, we can break down barriers and empower people to grow.

Community = Success

As the conversation concluded, a powerful realization emerged: community is the cornerstone of our journey. As a result of the pandemic, the value of connection has never been more evident. Strong communities embolden individuals to voice their concerns and take meaningful action, fostering a sense of empowerment and inspiration.

The group recognized that we don’t need to be ‘experts’ to make a difference. The key is empathy. We don’t have to fully comprehend someone’s experience to offer support. The willingness to listen, learn, and provide a helping hand is what truly matters, making everyone feel valued and understood. It’s also not realistic to think we will always have the answers. What’s more important is creating safe spaces where everyone feels heard and understood. It’s about asking, ‘What do you need?’ instead of assuming we already know, making everyone feel included and valued.

So, What’s Next?

This conversation was just the beginning, but it provided us with some clear next steps:

  • Show up more within communities, instead of waiting for people to come to us
  •  Listen more and assume less
  •  Hold  space for tough, uncomfortable conversations
  •  Advocate for change – every chance we get

We’re excited about what lies ahead, but we need your help. Your voice, your actions, and your support are crucial. We ask you to start having these conversations in your own spaces, speak up for change, and, most importantly, listen.

Our Big Table discussion will pave the way for many more engaging conversations.Thank you to everyone who joined us! As we continue to come together, we have the power to make a real difference. So, let’s stay hopeful and inspired and remember our collective action leads to change. 

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Creating Joy through Collective Impact

Reflections from The Jensen Project Grant Tank Cohort

As proud recipients of a grant from The Jensen Project, we were invited to participate in their annual Grant Tank cohort, an experience that extends far beyond financial support. The cohort creates a unique space for leaders in the anti-human trafficking movement to come together, build camaraderie, and collaborate on solutions to the complex challenges we face. This year, I had the honor of representing Freedom a la Cart, eager to learn from others and deepen our impact. 

The theme of the 2024 Grant Tank cohort was “Create Joy,” and The Jensen Project truly delivered. Each day started with grounding words from the TJP team, and we began with a candle ceremony that set the tone for deep connection, reflection, and purpose throughout the cohort. This intentional space invited us to share our work, foster meaningful collaboration, and find joy in the journey. 

As a member of this cohort of 24 anti-human trafficking organizations, I was inspired by the wealth of knowledge and experience shared over the course of the week. What really stood out throughout the cohort was the power of collaboration. We weren’t just there to share our own successes – we were there to learn from one another’s challenges and lessons learned. Each of us brought unique perspectives but all working toward the same outcome: a world without sexual exploitation. 

Collective Impact and Shared Goals

As part of the cohort, we came together to align our efforts, knowing that the fight against human trafficking requires a collective impact, a theme of the  TJP cohort. The collective impact approach is an effective means of collaboration to address complex social issues and achieve greater results. 

One takeaway that really resonated with me was during a panel featuring Rights4Girls, World Without Exploitation, and the National Center on Sexual Exploitation. The discussion focused on advancing anti-human trafficking policy, and one line stuck with me: “Without common language, we can’t push toward a common goal.” 

This powerful reminder highlights the importance of not only unifying our efforts but ensuring we are all speaking the same language. Whether we are advocating for policies, delivering services, or communicating within our own organizations, we must be aligned in our mission and language. This is true in the anti-human trafficking movement, within the Grant Tank cohort, and in our work at Freedom a la Cart. 

Data-Driven Solutions: Turning Information into Wisdom

The theme of shared goals continued with a presentation by Allies Against Slavery, a data and technology partner within the cohort. They emphasized the importance of data to drive the anti-human trafficking mission, introducing us to the DIKW pyramid: Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom. This framework demonstrates that collective wisdom is built on knowledge, which is founded in accurate, actionable data. At Freedom, we’re exploring tools to track survivor outcomes more effectively and measure the long-term success of our programs. 

The importance of data was further reinforced by work shared by The Network. Ian Hassell’s journey from the CIA to founding an organization focused on dismantling human trafficking networks – specifically the illicit massage industry – was both fascinating and sobering. One startling fact he shared: The United States has more illicit massage businesses than McDonald’s. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a call to action for more strategic, data-driven responses.

Survivor-Centered Reform: Empowerment Through Social Enterprise

One of the most powerful parts of the cohort was the focus on survivor-centered reform. A panel featuring economic empowerment organizations – Designed for Joy, Rethreaded, and Thistle Farms – provided insight into how these social enterprises partner with one another to provide opportunities for survivors. Each organization shared its unique model and advice for creating sustainable employment pathways, offering both career development and supportive services.

This survivor-centered approach aligns closely with our own work at Freedom, where we constantly strive to put the voices and needs of survivors at the heart of our mission. It was a reminder to always “ask survivors what they need” and to ensure that we remain peer-focused, community-driven, and curious in our approach to support. By collaborating with other social enterprises like Rethreaded, we can strengthen the services offered to survivors, creating a stronger, more resilient community of support.

Inclusive Leadership: Moving Beyond Biases

The Grant Tank also provided an opportunity to dive into the concept of inclusive leadership, a discussion led by “the Amandas” from Impact Rising, an organization invested in helping teams discover and design their path to greater impact. As we engaged in dialogue about strategic growth, we were asked to examine our own biases and explore how to overcome them. We reviewed the elements of six signature traits of an inclusive leader, as outlined in Deloitte’s research, and reflected on how fostering diversity and inclusion within our organizations is key to long-term success.

This was more than just an exercise; it was a chance to turn theory into practice. How can we truly embody these traits in our leadership roles? How can we ensure that our work is shaped by inclusive practices, not just in policy but in day-to-day operations? At Freedom, we are working to foster curiosity and commitment, two key traits of inclusive leadership. We strive to create environments where diverse voices are heard and valued, and where biases are challenged through open dialogue and training.

As I reflect on the week, I am left with a deep sense of hope. The work is not easy, and the road ahead may be long, but as Ian from The Network reminded us with this thought-provoking quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Even in the face of daunting challenges, progress is being made, and together, we can keep moving forward – one step, one partnership, one act of joy at a time. A heartfelt thank you to the TJP team for bringing this group of thought leaders together for three days of joy and learning. 

 

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6 Powerful Takeaways: How the Freedom Team Took On the Ohio Attorney General 2024 Human Trafficking Summit

 

Attending the yearly OAG 2024 Human Trafficking Summit was not only an educational experience —it was a profound journey that deepened our commitment to combating human trafficking and supporting survivors. As we gathered with other passionate advocates and experts, we were immersed in powerful discussions, innovative workshops, and an inspiring keynote address. Each session armed us with fresh perspectives and practical strategies to combat human trafficking and support survivors. We’re excited to share our insights and experiences from the summit, which left us feeling inspired. 

 

Takeaway #1: Transforming Triggers into Cues – Kenzie 

One of my favorite moments was exploring the concept of turning triggers into cues in the session “Surviving to Thriving” with Rachel Socorro. Imagine seeing overwhelming moments not as a threat but as a signal you can control. When you view these cues as signals, you regain control and can respond to them. On the other hand, if you see them as triggers, you tend to react, and they often overwhelm you. By shifting your mindset and identifying potential triggers as cues, you reclaim that control because they become an alarm, an alert, and an opportunity for awareness with the ability to deactivate them. This approach can be applied in everyday life and can help individuals feel empowered and in charge of their lives.

 

 

Takeaway #2: The Game-Changing Impact of Resources and Support – Devin

The “Should I Stay or Should I Go” simulation was a powerful reminder of how limited resources can drastically impact a young person’s life, making them vulnerable to trafficking. This session, led by Veronica Scherbauer and Rebekkah O’Bryan from the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Office of Criminal Justice Services, was an engaging and interactive simulation. We had to make choices as if we were a 15 year old girl with very limited resources and extremely vulnerable. Examples they provided us were to stay in a home where you were being sexually assaulted by your uncle, live unhoused, have sex with a stranger for money, or move back in with your abusive boyfriend who was really your trafficker. It was very eye-opening to see how small your world would be when support is limited and resources are nonexistent. I appreciated the simulation aspect as a different way of educating.

 

Takeaway #3:  The Power of Connection and Community for Creating Change – Nicki

“Saving Their Own Lives: Centering Survivors in Navigating the Continuum of Care,” led by Gwen England of Franklin County Municipal Court’s CATCH Court Program and Hannah Estabrook of Sanctuary Night, was a deeply impactful experience. I was honored to be part of our Columbus connection, contributing to the anti-trafficking efforts in Central Ohio. The session underscored the significant impact of the organizations involved and our collective awareness of the needs of survivors. The emphasis on connection and community by our panelists was a powerful reminder of the positive change we are making. The collaboration between CATCH Court, Sanctuary Night, and Freedom a la Cart provides women a safe and nurturing space to help themselves. Our continued support, connection, and love make this possible.

 

Takeaway #4: Guiding Survivors Toward Freedom from Abuse – Karla

I had the opportunity to attend the session “Saving Their Own Lives: Centering Survivors in Navigating the Continuum of Care.” The session shed light on the crucial role of peer support in assisting survivors on their journey towards recovery and self-sustainability. I was particularly inspired by the success of CATCH Court and Sanctuary Night in providing ongoing support to survivors even after they graduate from the CATCH program. CATCH Court, which stands for Creating Autonomy Through Collaborative Healing, focuses on empowering survivors to make positive choices for themselves to break the cycle of abuse through counseling, resources, and support. On the other hand, Sanctuary Night works hand in hand with CATCH Court to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals who have fallen back into harmful cycles, offering them the support needed to get back on track. It’s heartening to see such programs aiming to reduce criminal activity stemming from abusive environments and guiding survivors towards a path of freedom from abuse.

 

 

Takeaway #5: Measuring and Leveraging Hope for Improving Health and Future – Amanda

I attended a session titled “Hope Rising: How the Science of Hope Can Change Your Life”, led by Laura Kaiser and Ruth Downing from the Forensic Nursing Network. One key point I took away from this session is that hope can be measured and used to improve the health and future of individuals. It was emphasized that those with a high ACE score can change the odds if they also have a high hope score. An ACE score is a measure of adversity experienced during childhood, including abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction, and it can have long-term impacts on health and well-being. Equally important, it was highlighted that providing trauma-informed support to individuals at all stages of being a sex trafficking survivor is crucial. This support has and will continue to make a significant difference in how well survivors can be helped, and it’s a testament to our collective compassion and understanding.

 

Takeaway #6: Challenging Assumptions About Human Trafficking – Mickey

The first session I attended was “From Surviving to Thriving”, and our speaker talked about her experience in an arranged marriage, a situation I had never considered as trafficking. Her emphasis on a holistic approach, asking survivors, ‘What do you need?’ rather than assuming, was enlightening. It has put me on high alert to look for less obvious indicators of human trafficking. I now have a new perspective, and it has significantly broadened my understanding of human trafficking. 

 

The OAG 2024 Human Trafficking Summit provided a platform for meaningful conversations, inspiring stories, and actionable strategies to combat human trafficking and support survivors. As we reflect on the insights and experiences shared at the summit, we are inspired and equipped with new ideas and perspectives to continue our efforts in the fight against human trafficking. 

At the summit, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost made a significant announcement that empowers us all—a new statewide human trafficking hotline. This hotline, soon to be operational under the number 844-END-OHHT, is a crucial resource for reporting and preventing human trafficking. 

This powerful gathering of advocates and experts has reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to making a difference in our communities and supporting those affected by human trafficking. As we move forward, we are more determined than ever to apply these lessons, take proactive steps, and create a safer, more supportive environment for survivors.  Together, we can make a meaningful impact and continue the fight against human trafficking, instilling confidence and reassurance in our collective effort.

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VEGETABLE QUICHE + A WINTER SALAD

Cooking Instructions:

Vegetable Quiche + a life salad with sweet chili vinaigrette (Vegetarian as well)

In Your Meal Kit:

  • Vegetable Quiche
  • Winter Life Salad

PREPARING YOUR MEAL

Preheat oven to 300*

Place quiche on a baking sheet and reheat for 15-20 minutes

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Big Changes Happening at Freedom!

 

Big Changes Happening at Freedom!

 

Over the last three years our Executive Chef, Jessica Levy has made an immense impact here at Freedom a la Cart. Chef Jess has brought so much passion, talent and leadership to our catering business and the organization as a whole.  She has led the catering team through a 56% increase in annual sales while creating various new, delicious and fresh menu items to share with our community. Next week, we say goodbye to Jess as our Executive Chef as she begins a new journey in her career, but will forever remain a part of our Freedom Family. We wish Jess the best of luck on all her future endeavors and will always be grateful for her hard work, passion and all of her cookie recipes!!

 

With that being said, meet Chef BJ Lieberman!

 

Starting September 16th, Chef BJ Lieberman will join Freedom a la Cart as the interim Executive Chef. Chef BJ, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, has previously served as Head Chef of nationally acclaimed, Michelin-Starred Rose’s Luxury and Sous Chef of Little Pearl restaurants in Washington D.C. He’s moving to Columbus to work on the opening of his own restaurant and we’re so thrilled to have him lead our catering team while we search for Freedom’s next Executive Chef. For the last two years, Chef BJ has also donated a private chef dinner experience for the live auction at Freedom a la Cart’s annual fundraising event, Eat Up! Columbus, raising more than $20K for the organization.

 

“Chef Jess has done an amazing job of taking our food and culinary experience to the next level for our customers. While a strong talent in the kitchen, she’s also been a beloved role model to the survivors in our program. We’re grateful to have had her leading our kitchen team and we wish her all the best,” said Paula Haines, Executive Director of Freedom a la Cart. “We’re excited to have Chef BJ temporarily join our team as we begin the search for finding our next Executive Chef.”

BEST OF LUCK JESS & WELCOME TO THE TEAM BJ!

 

Freedom a la Cart now accepting applications for the Executive Chef role. For more details on the Executive Chef position and to apply, please visit freedomalacart.org/careers

 

 

 

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Freedom Joins Social Enterprises to Test New Validated Social Impact Seal!

Freedom has been selected to join and test the new validated Social Impact Seal! So, what does that mean?

SocialVentures, the Better Business Bureau of Central Ohio, and Measurement Resources Company have joined forced to develop and launch a unique, innovative pilot program on behalf of the rapidly growing social enterprise sector, to validate the social impact they communicate to community stakeholders, consumers, and investors.

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Just Go For It

Teenage girl raises nearly $5,000 for Freedom a la Cart

 

Never underestimate the power of a woman on a mission! Even a young woman of 16-years old.  Grace Welty, a 16-year-old junior at Westerville Central High School, wanted to do something to support Freedom a la Cart’s mission to empower survivors of human trafficking after discovering the severity of the sex trafficking issue in Central Ohio.

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human trafficking survivor stories

Human Trafficking Survivor Stories: Freedom a la Cart’s Vivian Kriel

 

Since bringing Freedom food to Columbus in 2011, our organization has had a lot of help in getting to where we are today. We are driven by the stories of the incredibly strong women that we’ve come to know and work with. Through their courage, perseverance, laughter, and friendship, these survivors of human trafficking keep us motivated in our fight for freedom. And so today, we want to share with you the story of a woman who reinforces our cause every single day.

Vivian Kriel is one of Freedom’s first employees and a peer mentor for the women enrolled in the CATCH program. In providing these survivors with all the resources they may need, Vivian strives to encourage and support them through an incredibly vulnerable time. We asked her to share a little bit about her journey and why she continues to fight for Freedom alongside our organization.

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