Our Story
Back in 2007, Lea and I (Aaron) read an article on how serial killers targeted prostituted women and girls as their victims. The reason they gave was that ‘no one cared about them; they were easily discarded and forgotten humanity.’ This article, and many other research materials and conversations with survivors, exposed the nature and volume of sex trafficking in the U.S. which struck us to the core. As passionate followers of Christ, love for all humanity, and a desire to help the oppressed was part of our spiritual DNA, and the cry of our hearts was “who is going to care for these vulnerable women?” We soon committed ourselves to finding a way to provide shelter and a secure, nurturing environment for survivors of sex trafficking to experience compassion and healing; to literally be the opposite of the ‘no one cares’ attitude in society. Our vision for Engedi Refuge was born.
It took six long years for this dream to become a reality.In the Spring of 2013 our Engedi safe-house and restorative Learning Center opened in Northwest Washington State. Implementing this vision took great faith and personal sacrifice, but what we found was a surprisingly supportive response from the local community, and soon several local professionals and many concerned citizens joined in our cause.The safe-house was quickly filled with sex-trafficking survivors seeking safety, comfort and help. The comprehensive and therapeutic program was immediately effective and the results were incredible. Engedi has grown in capacity over the years, and our staff and volunteers have proven to be among the best in the industry.
Engedi collaborates with similar agencies across the nation through an alliance of service-providers. The need for specialized care for trafficking survivors is extremely high, and we are limited in the space we have for these survivors; however, it is so rewarding be part of the solution for many, to walk beside them in their journey and to help them experience health and wholeness.As one of our residents put it, “I have grown and learned so much since I’ve been here (Engedi), and I truly believe they have helped save my life.” J.B.
Sometimes we get to be the answer to our own burning question; “who will care…?”. I guess we will!