Join us in empowering women breaking free from the chains of slavery and unlock endless possibilities for their future.
International Women’s Day 2024
In a world where slavery is still impacting approximately 27 million women and children, Hagar stands as a symbol of hope and freedom. For three decades, Hagar has been at the forefront of the fight against human trafficking, offering survivors, and those at risk, a path to healing through our work in Afghanistan, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This International Women's Day, we invite you to join us in this journey of transformation by pledging just $30 per month to celebrate Hagar's 30 years.
Hagar: 30 years of changing lives
At the heart of Hagar's mission lies a commitment to creating possibilities for women and children who have endured the unimaginable horrors of slavery and human trafficking. Through a comprehensive approach that spans from rescue to recovery and reintegration, Hagar not only offers a safe haven but also a platform for sustainable empowerment. By providing tailored education, vocational training, and emotional support, Hagar ensures that each individual they touch is equipped with the tools and confidence to rebuild their lives. This transformative journey opens doors to new beginnings, where once there were none, turning the dream of a life filled with freedom, dignity, and opportunity into a tangible reality. Through these efforts, Hagar is not just changing lives; it's sculpting a future where the possibilities are as boundless as the resilience and strength of the women and children it serves.
Cambodia
Malis’ Story
Growing up in a financially unstable family on the outskirts of Phnom Penh City, Cambodia, Malis took on the responsibility of supporting her family at a young age. At 16, she left home to work in the garment industry, hoping to alleviate their financial struggles. However, she fell victim to the false promises of a wealthy Chinese man and was forcibly taken to China. There, she endured two years of captivity, being forced into sexual activities and domestic servitude. Despite multiple failed attempts to escape, she was eventually arrested and brought back to Cambodia.
Hagar supported Malis upon her return, providing necessary healthcare, counselling, and basic necessities at the Home of Love. They also helped her reintegrate with her family and funded a new fishing boat for their future. This enabled them to earn a sustainable income and allowed Malis to pursue educational and career opportunities, including learning Chinese.
Today, Malis is an inspiring leader in her community, symbolising resilience. As a Chinese interpreter in Phnom Penh, she not only improves her family's living conditions but also empowers and protects other women by sharing her experiences and raising awareness about human trafficking. Her journey from exploitation to advocacy showcases her strength and the important role Hagar played in her recovery and success.
Afghanistan
Lailima’s Story
Lailima's life before Hagar was filled with adversity. The Taliban's regime change in 2021 shattered her dreams of education and imposed restrictions on women's rights. Economic decline led to financial ruin, forcing her into an abusive marriage for relief. She experienced gender-based violence and a sense of despair while trying to support her family and protect her siblings.
Hagar's intervention was a turning point for Lailima. Through Hagar's Emergency Response and Recovery (ERP) and Restoring Lives through Livelihood (RLL) projects, she received counselling and psychological support to overcome her trauma. Hagar also provided vocational training in tailoring and business development, empowering Lailima to pursue a career in business and transform her life.
Now, Lailima is a beacon of hope, leading the successful Dashte Barchi tailoring cooperative providing employment and economic opportunities for women. Lailima has been expanding the cooperative's impact by exploring new markets and product lines. Supported by Hagar, she overcame adversity and now inspires other women to pursue their dreams.
Vietnam
Tam’s Story
Tam, from Yen Bai province, Vietnam, faced numerous challenges as the sole provider for her family. She cared for her two special needs children and endured years of domestic violence from her husband. The situation worsened when her daughter, who has a cognitive disability, was sexually assaulted and gave birth to a daughter. With limited resources, Tam fought against poverty, violence, and sought stability for her loved ones.
Hagar's support brought hope to Tam's life. Through the Gender-Based Violence project, Tam received financial aid to invest in cinnamon farming, providing a sustainable income for her family and her granddaughter's education. Hagar's training also helped Tam manage her farm effectively and reduce violence at home, leading to an overall improvement in her family's well-being.
Tam's transformation from victim to advocate is a powerful testament to the impact of support and community engagement. Through Hagar's project, the Communal Women's Union, and local government resources, she has improved her family's future, living conditions, and empowered her son. Tam is now a beacon of resilience and leadership in her community.
“Before, I felt powerless and without hope. The challenges I faced seemed insurmountable. However, through Hagar's Restoring Lives Through Livelihood program, I've grown into someone I barely recognise from my past self. I've learned resilience, developed a strong sense of self-worth, and gained the skills to support myself and my family. Leading the tailoring cooperative has taught me about leadership, teamwork, and the importance of giving back to people like me. I've become more confident in my abilities and more optimistic about the future.
— Lailuma (Hagar Afghanistan Client)
International Women’s Day On the blog
Together, we can create more
Here’s where you come in…
Every donation goes directly to providing critical services and long-term support to ensure each survivor has the necessary tools and resources to achieve their goals.
For example:
$30 - Immediate Support: Help provide immediate assistance and emergency relief to survivors, including access to shelter, food, and clothing during times of crisis.
$100 - Holistic Care: Contribute to a survivor's holistic care, encompassing their physical, emotional, and educational needs, promoting healing and long-term recovery.
$250 - Skills Training: Empower survivors by funding job skills training or vocational programs, equipping them with valuable skills for sustainable employment opportunities.
$500 - Trauma Counselling :Assist survivors in accessing professional trauma counselling services, providing them with critical support to heal from their past experiences and rebuild their lives.
Your donation will make a real difference in the lives of survivors and help us to break this vicious cycle of exploitation and abuse.