Let's finish this year strong!
We are so grateful that even in these unusual times, our girls are still on the hearts and minds of people all over the world who continue to give generously. Just like the rest of the world over the last six months, the girls have felt the weight and the worry of the COVID-19 pandemic – not being able to visit their family, unable to attend school or vocational training, places of worship and youth groups.
This year has also been one of the hardest financially for the SHE Rescue Home and the families of our HER Initiative. Each year we attend many conferences and events for fundraising and sales of our beautiful handmade products. Due to cancelled events because of restrictions, we have seen a dramatic decrease in our fundraising.
In fact, we have lost over $380,000 (USD) in fundraising and sales compared to last year.
We have made adjustments by reducing administration and support staff in Australia and some auxiliary staff in Cambodia. We have also been able to reduce costs naturally as we don't have the travel and school expenses we would usually have with girls visiting provincial family homes and private schools.
The exciting news is with Cambodia’s restrictions easing, our girls are now returning back to school. Long awaited family visits are due to resume again, along with so many other activities in the Home that bring our girls joy. Yet with some factories and businesses still closed, there are now even more people in Cambodia vulnerable to human traffickers, exploitation through poverty and desperate circumstances.
We want to continue restoring the lives of young girls rescued from human trafficking and sexual exploitation, but without your support, we cannot welcome any more girls into our safety.
We are asking for our supporters to share our stories or donation links on social media. Every donation counts! Making a quick and simple donation online today and help us meet our fundraising needs for this year.
Maybe it’s choosing to do your Christmas shopping through our online store, purchasing ethical and beautiful handmade products for family and friends. Or you could host your own stall at a local Christmas market or event.
Perhaps it looks like ordering custom armbands handmade by our families in Cambodia for your upcoming events once restrictions are eased in your area. We also offer custom-made shirts, lanyards and so much more.
No matter how big or small, any support you can provide will help cover fundraising losses and change lives.
We are grateful for YOU.
We cannot truly express how grateful we are to have supporters like you - we appreciate you partnering with us to work towards ending human trafficking!
Thank you again,
Leigh and the IT'S NOT OK Projects team