Introduction to Gigi’s House
Gigi’s House is a beacon of hope for girls rescued from the horrors of human trafficking. This safe house offers them a sanctuary, providing not just physical safety but also emotional and spiritual healing. Human trafficking, often referred to by the acronym CSEC (Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children), is a grave issue that Gigi’s House aims to eradicate.
Providing Safety and Healing for Girls
Gigi’s House opened its doors in 2016, strategically located at the line of Henry and Clayton County. The facility comprises two homes with twenty bed spaces, dedicated to girls aged between 13 and 19. The organization offers 18 months of safety, hope, growth, and healing, with a strong faith-based approach.
The average age for a child trafficked in the United States is just twelve years old. In the metro Atlanta area alone, over a hundred girls are sold at least ten times a night. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for organizations like Gigi’s House.
Expanding to Accommodate More Girls
Gigi’s House is committed to expanding its services to accommodate more girls in need. The organization has recently added a second location that can house an additional ten girls. They have also broken ground on an administrative building that will include a gymnasium, classrooms, therapy offices, and medical facilities.
This expansion is part of their vision to create a holistic “Ministry Village” on an eight-acre campus. The goal is to provide all necessary services on-site, reducing the need to transport girls for medical visits and other activities.
How to Support Gigi’s House
There are numerous ways you can support Gigi’s House and contribute to their mission of rescuing and healing girls from human trafficking. Financial donations can be made through their website, but there are also other ways to help.
- Donate food items
- Volunteer as a mentor
- Provide cleaning supplies
- Offer medical supplies
Mental and emotional support through mentorship and volunteering can significantly impact the girls’ lives, providing them with a sense of community and belonging.
The Reality of Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a $32 billion-a-year industry, with the International Labor Organization estimating it generates $150 billion globally each year. In the Atlanta area, the average “John” earns about $32,000 a week from trafficking activities. This staggering figure highlights the scale of the problem and the urgent need for awareness and action.
Raising Awareness and Providing Training
Gigi’s House also focuses on raising awareness about human trafficking and providing training to various community organizations and law enforcement agencies. They offer human trafficking awareness training to corporations, community groups, and police departments, helping to spread knowledge and build a more informed community.
Every one of us has a role to play in combating human trafficking. If you see something suspicious, speak up. Call the national human trafficking hotline or reach out to local law enforcement. Your voice can make a difference.
Conclusion
Gigi’s House is more than just a safe house; it’s a place of transformation and healing for young girls who have endured unimaginable trauma. By providing a comprehensive support system, from emotional and spiritual healing to practical life skills, Gigi’s House is making a significant impact in the fight against human trafficking.
Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, can help Gigi’s House continue its vital work. Together, we can make a difference and offer hope to those who need it most.
