Survivors of sex trafficking find their voice in Ga.

For young women in Georgia who survived being exploited by sex trafficking, safe care in the form of accommodation and treatment for unplanned pregnancies can be rare and hard to find. However, there are organizations offering support and resources, such as Edify Teens. 

Organization founder Elsie Dunn said she can relate to what other young women go through. 

“I was 15, pregnant, and hidden away in a maternity home out of shame of being a teen mom,” she said. 

But she received encouragement from her grandmother, who told her, “Mary was a teen girl who gave birth to Jesus. Just one sin doesn’t determine your destiny.” 

At age 60, Dunn has transformed her suffering into hope. She said that these victims have already suffered abuse, exploitation and rejection. 

The State of Georgia is considered one of the seven states with the highest level of human trafficking in the U.S., according to the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office. Four cases per every 100,000 people happen within state boundaries.These statistics conceal the suffering of young girls who have been exploited and now struggle with their unwanted pregnancy. 

Edify House is a maternity home in Georgia which takes in pregnant teenagers who have been sex trafficked. It is more than a safe haven for these vulnerable girls. It gives them round-the-clock care, therapy, prenatal assistance and life skills coaching. 

Edify Teens provides safe accommodations for women ages 18-25 who were sexually assaulted and are now dealing with their unplanned pregnancy. In the last three years, Edify Teens accommodated about 17 women and helped nine victims who have suffered from sex trafficking. Dunn’s main vision is a world in which all teen moms can live with their families while feeling protected, cared for and strong. 

The organization also offers other forms of assistance, stability and advocacy.  Dunn’s organization raises awareness of sexual trafficking among teenagers, especially those who become pregnant while under the care of the state. 

A recent community-based intervention initiative, the Strengthening Families Program in Peach County, extends this impact by offering weekly sessions that provide family-centered support and education for children and caregivers in need. 

In a state where the problem of trafficking still persists, Edify Teens proves that there is hope for survivors if only they receive proper assistance and care.

Editor’s note: Amy Charan is a freshman at Wesleyan College. She is part of the college’s Local Democracy Lab, which helps students gain real-world journalism experience through collaboration opportunities with professional staff members at The Melody.