The Village Lady

Cycles

Blog, Cycles, Poverty Cycles, Social Justice Issues

Human Trafficking: A Violation Against Humanity

On any given night there are more than 100,000 homeless youths on the streets. How many are trafficked?

The actual numbers are unknown but data shows a disproportionate number of those trafficked are young women of color.

Human trafficking is a gross violation of the rights and dignity of women and men caught in the cycle.

Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a focus group discussion at the Star Parker’s Center for Urban Renewal to tackle the issue of human trafficking in an effort to combat its perversion.

Click on our page or website to learn about the work Carried To Full Term is doing to change cycles of abuse, abandonment and poverty.

Blog, Cycles, Features, Start

Feeling Stuck?

Many of my friends and many of you who are being called or sensing a calling to something difficult, I’m committed to being a resource to you. It took seven years of work before I was able to open Carried To Full Term, a nonprofit organization that provides housing for pregnant women in crisis, to include homelessness.

In the early years, I wrestled with uncertainties and fear. I am a spontaneous person but being a wife and mother of our children required cautious steps and wisdom. With hindsight as a friend, I can see clearly how I would do each step differently today.  Friends, seek our people who are doing the same thing and ask their advice. Also, use the advice they give. Surround yourself with people that will support you and speak truthfully and wisely to you.

Initially, many doors closed but some did opened. To those of you who were beyond patient with my oversized dreams, thank you for taking me under your wings, particularly Mary’s Shelter.

I had two wonderful friends, who spent countless hours of conversation and listening  and encouraging me, especially during the times of great uncertainty. That’s patience in action right there.

To those of you struggling with your next steps, there are people who will help you without judgement! Ask!

Periodically, I’ll post a few things that I think will help, especially you, who are afraid to ask.

Blog, Cycles, Social Justice Issues

Effective Relationships

The message of Hope often gets lost in the crosshairs of the LIFE discussions in the marketplace. Housing and being caught in a cycle of poverty are usually at the heart of the crisis. 

begin with a focus on relationships


What I’ve learned is that families caught in the cycle of poverty don’t usually care about positions or beliefs when they’re in crisis. 
However, when the need is met and an accountability system is put in place and they’ve had a chance to observe love in action, then comes the flood of questions about this idea, giver, creator of unconditional love.