9.2011

Dear Janet       

I just got your letter and thanks so much for writing me. It gets lonely in here. I also wanted to thank you for taking time out of your day to come to R.I. jail and show us a better way of life. I’ve never been to church or picked up a bible until the first week I went to your class. I can say that I have been thinking about letting God into my life and surrendering my heart to him ever since I was younger but never devoted my time to it, until now. Because like you said in class, it takes time to get to know God and I now have time. Here is my story; I’m 19 years old, I have 2 younger brothers, my life was great until I witnessed my mom and dad fighting all the time. My dad drank, and my mom abandoned us when I was 7. Being the only female in the house I had to grow up quick, taking responsibilities my mom should have done. I grew up then in a hostile environment, throwing things, yelling, and I resented having to grow up so quick. I blamed myself for my mom leaving. I had just become a teen when I was raped, by a senior in high school, everyone found out and I was bullied by others because of it. I started acting out and stealing to get people to like me, buying them things etc. I take care of everybody else and please people who don’t even care for me. Nearly a year ago I met a guy, while living in the streets from place to place. And he seemed like the one! I was finally being the one to be taken care of. After three months, I found out he was a pimp (human trafficker) from out East.  He told me I owed him for his time and money and he’d kill me and my family if I didn’t work for him. So I did.  After a while I figured a way to get away, but got charged with prostitution doing so. I was staying at a relative’s  when a guy showed up and threatened me and my family saying that I owed His guy and I had to go with him. He took me to a southern state, and made me work the internet, streets and truck stops. I was locked in his house abused sexually & physically every night.  I was drugged and would wake up with my clothes off. Only a short time ago I got a hold of my family again and was able to get away from these men. But when I came here there was a warrant on me and that is how I met you, Janet. I just know I want a relationship with God. I don’t want to be used and taken advantage of any more. I want to be happy, I want to be loved for the right reasons and I know God can provide that for me. Your program seems like everything I need for a fresh start.

(Name Withheld for Confidentiality)