A Second Chance

I used to live in darkness and considered ending it all. When I was eighteen, I was trafficked to Russia where I worked illegally as a labourer. But even after I was rescued and returned home to Vietnam, I still couldn’t find a job that paid enough money to live on. I felt helpless and alone until I heard about Hagar.

I’ve been living in a recovery home with a housemother and other girls like me for about six months. In that time, I’ve totally turned my life around. By attending every training and utilising every resource, I’m affording myself the opportunity to break into the hospitality industry. While I one day hope to become a receptionist, I’m currently working hard as a waitress before I begin my vocational training this fall. I can’t wait to be a college student!

Last week, I celebrated my 21^st birthday with my new family and friends at Hagar. And as we all sat around eating the traditional Bum Bo Nam Bo, I became aware of how much I’ve changed for the better. I know I still have a long way to go and that it won’t be an easy journey, but I’ll treasure each moment at Hagar and do my best to make for myself the life I previously only dreamed of.

Three years ago, Thien was trafficked to Russia for forced labour. After her rescue, she found herself trapped in a series of low paying jobs in Vietnam. When she came to Hagar, she started to find hope. Not long ago, Thien started working part-time as a waitress at Joma Bakery Café and will soon begin vocational training as a receptionist.

“I am really grateful for what Hagar Vietnam has done for me. Thank you for raising me up from my helplessness! Thank you for letting me know that I have value and that I deserve happiness! Thank you for helping me through dark times when I have considered ending it all.” -Thien

Join us on the the journey! Help women like Thien find hope and healing by donating today.